Shabana has written to update constituents about the Coronavirus Bill 2019.

Many constituents contacted Shabana regarding provisions in bill that would disregard existing rules preventing local authorities from being able to cremate a body against the wishes of the deceased. The Bill would allow local authorities to ignore the wishes of religious persons to be afforded a proper burial for themselves or their loved ones.

Writing to constituents, Shabana said:

“I have been working all weekend on this issue with cross-party colleagues in Westminster and in Birmingham. I have been in close contact with Councillor Sharon Thompson, Cabinet Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods, council officials, and religious groups from across our city and I’m a signatory to an important amendment on this issue to the emergency legislation, tabled by Naz Shah MP, which is going through Parliament.

“For some time, I have been involved in deeper discussions about Coroner Services in Birmingham, and how they respect the wishes of faith groups from across our city. I will continue this work on behalf of constituents of all faiths and none.

“Today I am hoping to see some positive progress regarding amendments in the Coronavirus Bill 2019 and I will keep constituents up-to-date as and when I have new information.”

Updated 23.03.20

Commenting on updated Government guidance, Shabana said:

“I’m really pleased that the government has listened to the concerns raised by myself and many others about the need to respect religious burial practices within the emergency Coronavirus legislation.

“I will continue working closely with Cllr Sharon Thompson, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Muslim Burial Council, and others to ensure our city has the resources and planning in place to mitigate any issues which may arise.”

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