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Funeral Regulation

01 September 2026

Proposing MP
Yvette Cooper Lab
Normanton, Pontefract and Castleford
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
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TAGS
Crime & Law Enforcement Justice & Courts NHS

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses the need for formal regulation of the funeral sector to prevent rogue operators and ensure better protection for bereaved families.

Action Requested

The Government will bring forward comprehensive proposals for the regulation of the funeral sector, including a review by the Law Commission of the criminal law related to the deceased. The Department of Health and Social Care will work with stakeholders to ensure future policy is informed by relevant experience and will keep the House updated on the progress and implementation of these proposals.

Key Facts

  • Robert Bush, a criminal funeral director, was sentenced to twenty years in prison on 31 July for 67 charges including fraud and theft.
  • Sir Jonathan Michael’s inquiry into David Fuller’s crimes in the mortuary of Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust showed the need for better standards across all settings for deceased individuals.
  • The Law Commission will review the criminal law in relation to the deceased and make recommendations for new offences if necessary.
  • The Department of Health and Social Care, the Ministry of Justice, and other government departments are leading this work.
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