§ Mr. LoydenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the procedure for the issuing of a death certificate to bereaved families in cases when the death occurs in hospital; and if she will make a statement.
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§ Dr. MawhinneyThe medical certificate of cause of death is issued by the doctor who attended the patient whilst in hospital or, if this is not possible, by Her Majesty's coroner. Departmental guidance suggests that hospitals should provide written local instructions, and appropriate training, to help staff advise bereaved families on such issues as collection of death and cremation certificates, registration of death and cases which require referral to the coroner.