To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) how many coroner's regions were allocated part-time coroners in each year since 1997; how many were without a fully qualified coroner for part of the period between 1997 and 2007; and if he will make a statement; (148246)

The ratio of part-time to full-time coroners for the years between 1997 and 2004 is currently being gathered and I will write to the hon. Lady shortly. The Coroners' Society annual report lists 89 part-time coroners and 28 full-time coroners in 2005 and 86 part-time coroners and 32 full-time coroners in 2006. There are currently 79 part-time coroners and 32 full-time coroners. An individual has to be qualified either as a lawyer or doctor for five years to serve as a coroner, deputy coroner or assistant deputy coroner.