Funeral regulation call for evidence imminent

SAIF notes with interest Justice Minister Mike Freer MP’s response to four questions regarding the regulation of the funeral sector submitted by MPs Alexander Stafford and Jim McMahon.

The Minister’s statement was given yesterday and is as follows:

“We have accepted that some form of regulation of the funeral sector is required. My officials have therefore been working on a plan to assess the adequacy and effectiveness of the self-regulation regimes introduced by the two main representative bodies, and to launch a call for evidence.

“The call for evidence will be launched before summer recess and will gather views on what type of regulation is appropriate and proportionate. Following this, we will develop and consult on proposals for the regulation of the sector. There are a number of possible routes for regulation including introducing an independent regulator. It is too early at this stage to say which is most appropriate.

“I have discussed the regulation of the Funeral Sector with cabinet colleagues, and am working particularly closely with Minister Hoare on the short-term response to the tragic events in Hull and East Rising.”

SAIF is committed to working with partners within the Government and the funeral profession, including the NAFD, to deliver a proportionate system of regulation that safeguards bereaved families and independent funeral homes.

The proposed call for evidence will offer a chance for SAIF-accredited businesses across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to demonstrate their professionalism and high standards of care.

We look forward to receiving further information from the Ministry of Justice in the coming months and building on the foundations SAIF has laid in terms of its quality assurance and consumer protection programmes.

It will also build on our work with the Scottish Government and the NAFD to develop Scotland’s Funeral Director Code of Practice, which becomes enforceable next March.