Inquiry Calls for Funeral Sector Regulation in UK

An independent inquiry into David Fuller, who abused over 100 female bodies in Kent mortuaries, has called for urgent regulation of the funeral sector in the UK. Sir Jonathan Michael, chair of the inquiry, highlighted the shocking lack of oversight, noting that anyone can become a funeral director without proper checks, leading to potential abuse. The inquiry's first phase revealed significant failings at the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust that allowed Fuller to offend undetected. The second phase will address national standards and practices across the funeral industry to ensure dignity and security for the deceased. Michael emphasized that while many in the sector are professional and caring, recent neglect cases underscore the need for regulatory reforms. The inquiry aims to assist the government in establishing a regulatory regime that prevents abuse and ensures the sector is fit for purpose.