Overview

This bill, primarily concerning inquests and the release of intercepted communications data, involves disagreements between the House of Lords and the House of Commons regarding access to information during inquests and the necessity of a specific provision within the Public Order Act 1986.

Description

The bill centers around several key amendments. The Lords proposed amendments to allow coroners access to intercepted communications data (relevant to inquests), subject to restrictions on public disclosure. The Commons rejected these amendments citing concerns about public disclosure of sensitive information. A compromise was reached, with the Lords offering an alternative amendment (1B) that allows a senior coroner to suspend an inquest if an inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005 is underway. Separately, the Lords sought to remove sections (Clause 61 and parts of Clause 165) of the Public Order Act 1986, deeming them unnecessary. The Commons disagreed, insisting on the necessity of these provisions.

Key Amendments

• Amendment 1B: Allows inquest suspension if a related inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005 is active.
• Amendments 59, 119, 121, 236, 239: Concern the removal of sections within the Public Order Act 1986. The Lords insisted on their removal, while the Commons opposed it.

Government Spending

The bill's impact on government spending is not explicitly stated in the provided text. Any financial implications would likely stem from the potential need for additional resources to support inquiries under the Inquiries Act 2005 should inquests be suspended.

Groups Affected

• Coroners: Affected by the process of conducting inquests, potentially including suspension of investigations.
• Individuals involved in inquests: Access to evidence may be affected depending on the outcome regarding intercepted communications data.
• Law enforcement agencies: Concerned with the potential for public disclosure of intercepted material.
• The judiciary: Involved in overseeing and potentially appointing judges to inquiries under the Inquiries Act 2005.

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