← Back to Westminster Hall Debates
Religious Crematoriums
16 September 2025
Lead MP
Susan Murray
Mid Dunbartonshire
LD
Responding Minister
Not recorded
Tags
No tags
Word Count: 2145
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Susan Murray raised concerns about religious crematoriums in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.
Key Requests to Government:
The Minister is asked to review the provision of religiously appropriate crematoriums across Britain and work with local authorities to ensure that the Equality Act 2010 is properly considered in all planning and funding decisions relating to crematoriums and burial services.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
There are over 300 crematoriums across the United Kingdom, but most do not reflect religious practices adequately. Many communities face strict time limits and space restrictions during ceremonies, which can lead to families adapting their traditions or feeling unsupported at a time of grief. Financial barriers exacerbate this issue by making it difficult for many to access appropriate services.
Alison McGovern
Lab
Wirral South
The Minister acknowledges the unique needs of faith and belief communities regarding burial and cremation practices. She emphasizes the importance of high-quality crematoriums that respect cultural and religious traditions, noting the 80% majority choice for funerals in the UK.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
The hon. Member agreed that everyone should be treated equally when it comes to accessing facilities for the burial or cremation of their loved ones, but noted that delays often mean families are unable to bury their loved ones within religiously required timescales.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.