08 February 2007
In brief
Coroners are to be given greater powers to ensure organisations act on their findings of the cause of death. Currently, coroners can make reports to public or private sector organisations about what steps they can take to avoid repeat incidents. The draft Coroners Bill will give them additional legal powers to require organisations to respond to their reports and say what action they will take to prevent future deaths, and request a written response within a specified timeframe. The Chief Coroner, to be appointed under the Bill, will make an annual report of reports made and responses received to the Lord Chancellor, to be laid before the House of Commons.
