A complaint about the Ministry of Justice's failure to properly communicate with a member of the public

20 July 2020

A case we have investigated found the Ministry of Justice failed to properly communicate with a member of the public about a potential local independent inquiry into the disposal of ashes. This happened after the death of their baby and has also happened to others who have lost their children.

This case highlights the need for the Cabinet Office to produce clear, coherent public guidance on the different types of inquiry and when they should be used.

Ombudsman Rob Behrens has written to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Michael Gove about the  case we have investigated and found failing by the Ministry of Justice.

You can download the case report and the letter below.