MP’s recommendations for reform implemented

Brian Binley MP for Northampton South is delighted that some of his recommendations for coronial reform have been taken on board following the deaths of five elderly residents at Parkside care home in July and August of 2009.

In a letter from Brian to the Secretary of State for Health, Andrew Lansley MP in February of this year, Brian suggested that the Department for Health and the Department for Justice look again into the role the Coroner plays in modern Britain encouraging Coroners to be more proactive in cases such as those at Parkside care home.

In a written Ministerial statement by the Department for Justice, the Government recognised the need for reform of the coroners system. Under Government proposals, the Chief Coroner’s office will remain in statute but key functions will be transferred to either the Lord Chief Justice or Lord Chancellor.

Brian said: “One of the key recommendations in this statement is that the Lord Chief Justice will have the power to issue training regulations for the first time, which can include specific requirements for certain cases.”

“The Lord Chancellor, who must agree the cases, is clear that in certain cases, more targeted training for Coroners is needed and I am delighted that they have taken these concerns on board. We must ensure that the tragic deaths at Parkside never happen again and I would hope that these changes go some way to making sure it doesn’t.”

“The Department has also established a Ministerial Board to focus on matters such as policy, standards of service and other administrative aspects of the delivery of service by Coroners and will play a vital role in overseeing the delivery of reform.”

“I hope that these measures will improve the standard and quality of service the coroners provide and help to make the service more transparent and help to improve the experience of those coming into contact with the Coroner.”

“For too long the system has gone unreformed and many of these changes will help to address the weaknesses of the current system.”