MoJ delays Medical Examiner System for second time

The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that the statutory Medical Examiner System will not come into force in the first half of April 2024, as previously announced. 

This is the latest delay of the scheme, which was originally intended to launch in April 2023. 

According to an update from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ)’s burial, cremation and funeral sector policy team, the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC), which is leading the implementation of the incoming Death Certification Reform provisions, will make further announcements in due course.

In the meantime, the DHSC maintains that it is working closely with the MoJ to confirm the precise commencement date.

Terry Tennens, CEO of the SAIF, said: “It’s unfortunate to learn that the system is potentially being delayed yet again and we’re disappointed on behalf of our members who have been preparing for the implementation of the new scheme. But more importantly, it could mean some of the logjams that bereaved families experience in laying loved ones to rest will continue for the foreseeable future.”

Rachel Bradburne, director of policy and public affairs at the NAFD, added: “Following months (years) of discussions with the government about the introduction of a statutory Medical Examiner scheme, it is incredibly frustrating to be so close to the finish line only for the government to announce more delays. 

“We continue to press the government for better communication on this and all elements of the death management pathway.”