Legacy scandal: Emma Hardy MP backs calls for funeral industry regulation

SUPPORT: Emma Hardy MP

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Hull MP Emma Hardy says she “unequivocally” supports calls for tougher regulation of the funeral industry following calls from victims of the Legacy Independent Funeral Directors scandal.

Her comments come after victims of Legacy owner Robert Bush spoke at Hull Crown Court of the devastating emotional impact of his crimes.

Bush, 48, is due to be sentenced this week after admitting 67 offences, including preventing the lawful and decent burial of 30 bodies, following one of the biggest and most complex investigations in Humberside Police history.

The court has heard how families were given the wrong ashes after cremation, and how police found decomposing bodies at the Legacy premises in Hessle Road after the scandal was discovered “by chance” while Bush was on holiday in the US.

They included the tiny remains of a still-born baby found in a paper bag on the floor.

There is currently no regulatory regime for funeral directors in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

In a post on Instagram yesterday, Ms Hardy, the Labour MP for Hull West and Haltemprice – the constituency where the funeral parlour operated – said: “The impact statements being heard at Hull Crown Court today are deeply moving and heartbreaking.

“My thoughts are with everyone affected, and I have immense admiration for those who have found the strength to share their experiences.

“Many of those statements have rightly called for stronger regulation of the funeral industry. I want those individuals and families to know that I unequivocally stand with them in that call.

“I have been working behind the scenes to push for progress on this issue, and I am encouraged that in his first week as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham agreed to meet with me to discuss what happened at Legacy.

“There is still more to do but the powerful testimonies being heard this week only reinforce why action cannot wait.”

She added: “This is an incredibly difficult time for so many people. If you have been affected and would like to speak with me, please do get in touch. Today and in the days ahead, I am sending my thoughts, support and strength to everyone impacted.”