Inquests in England and Wales - Reform

Reform

Owing to dissatisfaction with the current system, and in particular because of perceived failures to arrest the murder spree of Harold Shipman, proposals have been made for reform. A draft bill was published on 12 June 2006. The principle draft reforms are:

  • Greater rights of bereaved people to contribute to coroners' investigations;
  • A new office of chief coroner to lead and supervise practice;
  • Full-time coroners with new district boundaries;
  • Broader investigatory powers for coroners;
  • Improved medical support for coroners' investigation and decision making;
  • Vesting of treasure jurisdiction in the new office of treasure coroner with national responsibility.

Read more about this topic:  Inquests In England And Wales

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