Overview

This bill aims to improve the regulation of private burial grounds and cemeteries in England and Wales. It will require the Secretary of State to create regulations ensuring proper management, maintenance, record-keeping, and public access to information about these cemeteries.

Description

The bill mandates the Secretary of State to create regulations governing private cemeteries (excluding those run by local authorities, the Crown, other public bodies, or families on their own land). These regulations must cover several key areas:

• Cemetery Management: Owners must ensure proper management, maintenance (including good repair), and safe handling of vaults and memorials.
• Record Keeping: Detailed records must be kept, including burial space allocation plans, burial registers, and records of disinterments. These records must be kept in a durable format and made available for public inspection (for a reasonable fee).
• Burial Rights: Regulations will outline how burial rights are granted and the notification process if such rights are due to lapse.
• Offences: The bill allows for the creation of summary offences (fines) for breaches of the regulations, including an increased penalty for unauthorized removal of bodies (based on the Burial Act 1857).
• Regulatory Process: Regulations will be created through statutory instruments, requiring parliamentary approval. The Secretary of State must consult with affected parties before making these regulations (except for minor amendments).

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any government spending figures. The costs associated with implementing and enforcing the new regulations would be borne by the government, but the exact amount is currently unknown.

Groups Affected

• Owners of private cemeteries: They will face new legal obligations regarding management, record-keeping, and public access. Failure to comply could lead to fines.
• Members of the public: They will gain better access to information about private cemeteries, including burial records.
• Funeral directors and related professionals: Their practices may need to adapt to comply with the new regulations.

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