Explanatory note

This Order commences section 21 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c.25) (“the Act”). It is the eighteenth Commencement Order to be made under the Act.

Section 21 of the Act permits the Secretary of State to appoint a person as National Medical Examiner. The main function of the person so appointed (“the National Medical Examiner”) is to issue guidance to medical examiners appointed under section 19 of the Act (medical examiners). Medical examiners are required, under paragraph (9) of section 21, to have regard to such guidance when carrying out their functions. In addition, section 21 permits the Secretary of State to make regulations that confer additional functions on the National Medical Examiner. Section 21 requires the Secretary of State to consult Welsh Ministers before appointing a person as the National Medical Examiner or making regulations to confer additional functions. Section 21 also includes provisions as to the conditions of appointment, terms of appointment and payment of the National Medical Examiner, as well as provisions in relation to the issuing, amending and revoking of guidance.