Part 1

Coroners etc
Chapter 1

Investigations into deaths

Purpose of investigation

Matters to be ascertained
5
1
The purpose of an investigation under this Part into a person’s death is to ascertain—
a
who the deceased was;
b
how, when and where the deceased came by his or her death;
c
the particulars (if any) required by the 1953 Act to be registered concerning the death.
2
Where necessary in order to avoid a breach of any Convention rights (within the meaning of the Human Rights Act 1998 (c. 42)), the purpose mentioned in subsection (1)(b) is to be read as including the purpose of ascertaining in what circumstances the deceased came by his or her death.
3
Neither the senior coroner conducting an investigation under this Part into a person’s death nor the jury (if there is one) may express any opinion on any matter other than—
a
the questions mentioned in subsection (1)(a) and (b) (read with subsection (2) where applicable);
b
the particulars mentioned in subsection (1)(c).
This is subject to paragraph 7 of Schedule 5.