On Monday Caroline Lucas, the Brighton Pavilion MP asked a written question directed to the Ministry of Justice that was responded by Mike Freer the MP for Finchley and Golders Green. The answer did seem to be responded well. At the end of the response there is a link to the Law Commission website that is focused on A Modern Framework for Disposing of the Dead “Bringing the law governing how we dispose of the bodies of our loved ones when they die into line with modern needs.” which is provided by Professor Nicholas Hopkins and at the end of the brief information it states “This project began in December 2022. The project is starting with a scoping phase which will enable us to agree the terms of reference for the project with Government. Once the scope of the project has been established, we will set out more detailed plans for work.” So here is the question and response and the link to the Law Commission that includes “For general enquiries, please contact us by email at dod@lawcommission.gov.uk”

Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what his Department’s policy is on terramation; and if he will make a statement.

Mike Freer: Alternative methods of disposal that do not involve burial, or the burning of human remains are currently unregulated and fall outside the scope of the existing legislation on burials and cremation. Providers wishing to offer such services must ensure they comply with any other relevant legislation or regulation.

The Law Commission has now started its project looking at modernising and streamlining the law governing the disposal of human remains, with a view to putting forward a legal framework for the future. We expect it will include consideration of the creation of a regulatory framework for safe and dignified new processes, including terramation. Further details of this work can be found on the Law Commission website: https://www.lawcom.gov.uk/project/a-modern-framework-for-disposing-of-the-dead/.