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Written question asked by Simon Hoare (Conservative) on Tuesday, 14 January 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 16 January 2025. It was answered by Nicholas Dakin (Labour) on Wednesday, 22 January 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.


Funerals: Licensing

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what progress she has made on changing licensing in the funeral home sector.

Answer

Funeral directors have a profound responsibility to treat those who have died with the utmost dignity and respect and the majority of funeral directors conduct themselves in accordance with the high standards expected of them. However, the Government recognises that there are some significant concerns about certain practices within the funeral sector, as evidenced by the incident in Hull.

This is a complex and sensitive matter that demands careful consideration to ensure a response that effectively safeguards the public. It is crucial to protect the rights and dignity of those who have died and their grieving families, while implementing measures that are proportionate.

For that reason, the Government is thoroughly evaluating all potential next steps to ensure that the high standards upheld by many within the funeral director sector are consistently reflected throughout the entire industry. This includes the possibility of introducing suitable and proportionate regulation for funeral directors. Further updates on the next steps will be provided in due course and the Government will respond to the Fuller Inquiry when its part two report is published.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
23803
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Licensing Funerals
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk