Coroner’s ‘no precedence’ burials challenged

A CORONER who refuses to allow Jews or Muslims to be given precedence for burials has been accused of breaching human rights laws at the High Court.

Mary Hassell, the senior coroner for Inner North London, insists on dealing with deaths in her jurisdiction in the order they happen. The policy says no death will be prioritised based on the religion of the deceased or their family by either the coroner or her officers.

This is being challenged by religious groups who say it ignores “deeply held beliefs” which require their dead to be buried as soon as possible. They argue Ms Hassell’s stance is unlawful and breaches the Human Rights Act and the Equality Act.

Lawyers told the court yesterday that Ms Hassell’s jurisdiction covers the boroughs of Camden, Islington, Hackney and Tower Hamlets, which between them have “sizeable” Jewish and Muslim minority populations.

Sam Grodzinski QC told the court there was evidence from Jewish and Muslim leaders that the policy has caused “widespread distress” among faith communities.

The court heard that, since outlining the policy, Ms Hassell has said it is “flexible” and does take into account the wishes of families. The case continues.