Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Coroners

24 May 2024 · 6 other contributors

Opened by Gareth Bacon Con Orpington

Justice & Courts

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Gareth Bacon raised concerns about coroners in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • This instrument extends for two years the disapplication of the statutory requirement for jury-held inquests into deaths involving covid-19.
  • The proposed measures are intended to provide ongoing support for coroner services recovering from the covid-19 pandemic.
  • There are indications that a wider review may be necessary as time progresses.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Gareth Bacon Con Orpington

This instrument is an important part of the Government’s ongoing support for coroner services in their continuing recovery from the covid-19 pandemic. It extends for a further two years the disapplication of the statutory requirement for any inquest into a death involving covid-19 to be held with a jury, which will have practical benefits for the coroner service. The proposed measures will combat some of what has been discussed, but there is a wider possibility for review as time moves on.

Other contributors (6)
  • Kevin Brennan

    This measure is sensible given the state of backlogs impacting the coronial system, and the Opposition will not contest it today. However, Labour highlights significant and record high backlogs across the whole of the courts and tribunals system under 14 years of Conservative rule.

  • Bob Neill

    This measure is wise and sensible but there are broader issues that need to be tackled in the coronial system. A national coroners service would ensure greater consistency and a better service for bereaved families across the country, which is currently not the case.

  • Edward Timpson Con Eddisbury

    Paid tribute to Sir Robert Neill, his first Select Committee Chair back in 2008. Emphasised that this is his last speech before stepping down from Parliament.

  • Barry Sheerman

    Agreed with Edward Timpson's comments on Sir Robert Neill and highlighted the importance of Neill as a champion against miscarriages of justice.

  • Bob Neill Con Bromley and Chislehurst

    Acknowledged Edward Timpson’s significant contribution to the Justice Committee and his work with prison reform, expressing gratitude for their friendship.

  • Diana R. Johnson Lab Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham

    Raised a point of order regarding the Prime Minister's misleading statement to Figen Murray about rushing through legislation before the summer recess which contradicted his announcement of calling a general election.

▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy