Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps he is taking to prevent funerals from being cancelled because plots have not been properly prepared.

I have received no representations on the management of cemeteries by Dignity in Rotherham and have had no discussions with local authorities regarding contracts for funeral provision.

The Government expects all burial authorities to adhere to the framework of legislation and guidance for the management of burial grounds. This includes the Guide for burial ground managers which supports best practice, including in relation to the preparation of graves. The Government also expects funeral providers to adhere to the standards, codes of conduct and best practice established by the sector’s representative bodies.