§ Mr. KidneyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on his plans for the reform of coroners courts. [1729]
§ Beverley HughesWe are keen to ensure that coroners can provide a modern, effective, service. A fundamental review of the coroner arrangements was accordingly announced in January, with terms of reference published in March. An announcement about the names of the chair and review members is expected to be made shortly.
The review will address the coroner system both in England and Wales and in Northern Ireland, and will consider recommendations for changes to death certification procedures and the arrangements needed for the investigation of suspicious and unnatural deaths. I expect the review to report towards the end of next year.