Latest Press Releases
| ROBERTSON WELCOMES U-TURN ON CHIEF CORONER COMMON SENSE PREVAILS FOLLOWING STRONG CAMPAIGN |
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| Thursday, 24 November 2011 00:00 |
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Moray’s Member of Parliament, Angus Robertson, has welcomed a u-turn by the UK Government, which will see the appointment of a Chief Coroner.
The UK Government had originally proposed to remove the post despite strong public opposition through a campaign by the Royal British Legion. A campaign supported by many MPs. After intense pressure Justice Secretary Ken Clarke has changed his view and the post will now be appointed. Local Moray MP Angus Robertson, who received significant correspondence from campaign supporters in Moray, has welcomed the decision. Angus Robertson MP said: “ The campaign by the Royal British Legion to retain the post of Chief Coroner has been vital in securing this victory. “ The office of Chief Coroner is seen as being vital in providing the necessary lead and impetus to improve the service received by bereaved military families. “ Under the current system military deaths are investigated by coroners who are not part of a single structure, who have significantly varying experience, particularly in relation to military deaths and who do not have a single leadership figure to co-ordinate training, lead reform and provide an oversight function. “ That situation has to change to ensure that best practice is shared and followed and that the system can be as efficient as possible, preventing unnecessary delay for grieving families. “ A significant number of constituents contacted me in support of the campaign and SNP MPs voted to retain the post of Chief Coroner. “ While the subsequent u-turn by the UK Government to now fill the post is very welcome indeed, there is still concern that the Chief Coroner will not be able to consider appeals against coroner decisions and that issue will continue to be raised.” |
