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IPA response to the decision to establish a public inquiry into the Heaton Park Synagogue attack

Published:

On 13 October, the Home Secretary confirmed that proceedings into the deaths of Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby at Heaton Park Synagogue will move from an inquest to a statutory public inquiry.

This decision was made following a request from Chief Coroner Alexia Durran. It will allow sensitive security material to be examined in private, which would not have been possible in an inquest setting.

Responding to the announcement, Independent Public Advocate Cindy Butts said:

“I recognise the reasons for this decision and the opportunities it creates for sensitive evidence to be examined in a way that would not be possible within the inquest process.

My priority remains the families, survivors and wider community affected by this attack. They must remain informed, involved and at the heart of what happens next.

Moving to a public inquiry has implications that directly impacts victims, including the potential for increased delays and reduced transparency as evidence may be heard in private. Any limitation on transparency or engagement must not undermine families’ and survivors’ understanding of what happened or their ability to participate meaningfully in the process. 
 
Victims and families deserve answers, accountability and a voice throughout. As Independent Public Advocate, I will continue to press for a timely process and for families and survivors to receive the support and representation they need to participate meaningfully.”

Following the announcement, Cindy Butts has written to the Home Secretary to set out a number of considerations intended to help ensure the Inquiry remains accessible, effective and victim-centred.

In her letter, she highlighted the importance of:

  • Early and meaningful engagement with bereaved families and survivors on the Inquiry’s terms of reference before key decisions are finalised, delivered in a trauma-informed manner.
  • The appointment of an independent chair who commands confidence and has the experience and judgment necessary to lead the Inquiry, while engaging constructively with bereaved families and survivors throughout the process.
  • Properly funded, independent legal representation for bereaved families and survivors from the earliest stages, enabling them to participate effectively and on a more equal footing with the public bodies involved.
  • A timely and carefully managed transition from the coronial process, making appropriate use of work already undertaken and avoiding unnecessary delay, duplication and further distress.

The Independent Public Advocate will continue to engage with affected families, survivors, community representatives and government as arrangements for the Inquiry are developed.