Coroners empowered to move inquests

Coroners are no longer restricted to holding inquests within their own districts following a change in the law, meaning the forthcoming Hillsborough inquiry could be held anywhere in England and Wales.

Hillsborough victims' relatives have spoken out against the fresh inquest into the deaths of 96 Liverpool football fans being held in Sheffield - site of the disaster and where the original overturned inquest was held.

But a change to the Coroners Act 1988 will mean inquests can be held at different locations in England and Wales, if it is in the best interest of the bereaved family and others, such as witnesses.