Expert Raises Concerns Over Decision

A leading injury lawyer from Irwin Mitchell has called for the government to rethink its decision to not reform the inquest system, as well as the announcement that the position of Chief Coroner for England and Wales will not be established.

David Urpeth, who is also an assistant deputy coroner, commented after it was confirmed that neither of the proposals would now be going ahead, as the plans have become victims of public sector cuts.

Commenting on the decision, David Urpeth said: “The announcement that the review of the inquest system has been cancelled is a cause for concern, as it is vital to ensure the current processes in place are fit for purpose.

“Inquests often provide the answers that families and loved ones demand in relation to accidents at work and other incidents in which victims are harmed through no fault of their own.

“While cuts are bound to have an impact on so many parts of the public sector, I hope that the government reconsiders its plans in this case and realises the importance of improving the inquest system, an issue the government had previously recognised.”