Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Regulation and Inspection of Funeral Services 2025-10-27

27 October 2025 · 9 other contributors

Opened by Simon Hoare Con North Dorset

NHS

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

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.

Key points

  • Concerns about lack of regulation in funeral services sector were raised in the House.
  • Funeral operators representing 75% to 85% of the market support licensing or inspection systems.
  • The Minister pledged to address concerns through interdepartmental collaboration and swift regulation.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Simon Hoare Con North Dorset

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.

Other contributors (9)
  • Helen Maguire LD 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

Government Minister

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.

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