Andrew Dismore

Barnet and Camden’s London Assembly Member Andrew Dismore has again called for the sacking of controversial Coroner Mary Hassell. The inner north London Coroner (which covers part of Mr Dismore’s constituency in Camden) has had several run-ins with the Jewish and Muslim communities over the years, firstly at her previous office in Wales, and more recently when she instituted a “cab rank rule” to the releasing of bodies, in order of when they came in.

Local Jewish community groups successfully challenged in the courts Ms Hassell’s rule on the basis that it was discriminatory against Muslim and Jewish people, who are required to bury the dead within 24 hours for religious reasons. Last month, Ms Hassell received criticism for the slow return of the body of recently deceased Rabbi Bobby Hill, despite the pleas of Rabbi Hill’s family. As a result, Mr Dismore has written to the Chief Coroner Mark Lucraft QC demanding he sack Ms Hassell.

Mr Dismore said:

“Being a coroner necessitates dealing on a daily basis with the very recently bereaved. With that comes a requirement for compassion and understanding. It is clear that Ms Hassell has none of the required compassion or understanding of the needs of Jewish and Muslim residents. It is vital that the Coroner’s service understands the important requirements those faiths place on early burials, and the accompanying religious rituals. These rituals allow for bereaved families to grieve a loved one and feel that they are contributing one last act for the departed.”