← Back to House of Commons Debates
Regulation and Inspection of Funeral Services 2025-10-27
27 October 2025
Lead MP
Simon Hoare
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHSTaxation
Other Contributors: 9
At a Glance
Simon Hoare raised concerns about regulation and inspection of funeral services 2025-10-27 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
There are many issues that will divide this House and many issues that will divide society, but one thing that probably unites all of us is the legitimate expectation of decent and respectful treatment for our dead. Most funeral directors operate in good faith, but there are concerns about a lack of regulation and oversight in the sector. The Fuller inquiry highlighted these issues. Funeral operators representing 75% to 85% of the market want either a licensing regime or an inspection system. Private cemeteries are almost entirely unregulated, governed by burial Acts from the 1800s. Society needs regulation and accountability in this sector due to increasing public distrust.
Epsom and Ewell
Agrees with the hon. Member that private cemeteries are almost entirely unregulated, governed by burial Acts from the 1800s.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Supports the debate and agrees that funeral services must be of high standard. Urges regulation to ensure accountability in the sector.
Mark Sewards
Lab
Leeds South West and Morley
Raises concerns about lack of regulation leading to abuse by unscrupulous operators, urging the Minister for urgent action.
Robbie Moore
Con
Keighley and Ilkley
Supports the idea that setting up a funeral director service requires no licence or inspection, advocating for regulation.
James Asser
Lab
West Ham and Beckton
Suggests long-established family firms can play a role in future regulation due to their experience and respect.
Ben Lake
PC
Ceredigion Preseli
Supported the lead MP's argument for a licensing regime to ensure minimum standards.
Tessa Munt
Liberal Democrats
Wells and Mendip Hills
Expressed shock at the lack of clarity in funeral arrangements and stressed the importance of transparency in funeral services.
Emma Hardy
Lab
Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice
Supports the lead MP's concerns regarding funeral sector regulation and mentions local cases in Hull.
Diana Johnson
Lab
Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham
Acknowledges the Hessle Road community’s dignified campaigning for better care of the deceased.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the strength of feeling on the issue raised by hon. Members, particularly highlighting recent scandals that have exposed the inadequacies of current regulations in the funeral sector. He pledged to address concerns around dignity and safety for families and their loved ones. The minister committed to interdepartmental collaboration and coordination to ensure comprehensive regulation is implemented swiftly. The Government acknowledges the issues highlighted by the Fuller inquiry and phase 2 recommendations, focusing on regulation and service-level improvements. An interim update is expected before year-end, with a full response in summer 2026. The Department of Health and Social Care has committed to working across departments to implement necessary changes swiftly. Proposals include changing the Human Tissue Act and exploring local government services for regulation. Feasibility studies regarding Financial Conduct Authority intervention will be conducted. The Government aims to bring dignity to the deceased through a collaborative cross-departmental approach.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.