Would Muslims and Jews in Worcester benefit from a fast-track service at weekends and bank holidays by Worcestershire Coroner’s office?

Councillor Jabba Riaz, believes they would, Councillor Allah Dittah, also of Cathedral ward, thinks it’s not necessary.

Labour’s Cllr Riaz introduced a motion at Worcester City Council to ask the coroner to offer “a chargeable weekend and bank holiday service... so that burials can take place without delay.”

He said a swift burial was of particular importance to both Jewish and Muslim communities.

He said: “In both faiths it’s important to bury the deceased as soon as possible, on the day of death if possible. Jews cannot begin sitting Shiva, which is an important part of the mourning process until after the burial.

“For Muslims the mourning period cannot end until three days after the burial. Delays cause extra anguish and heartbreak

“I’m not suggesting any treatment out of the ordinary but paid-for service at weekends would be something that many people would appreciate.”

A Conservative amendment to Cllr Riaz’ motion removed the request for an additional chargeable service asked for the existing coroner’s protocols to be published

Conservative councillor Allah Ditta, who is also a trustee of the Muslim cemetery in Perdiswell in the city, said: “We have an excellent service from the coroner already. In 40 years at the cemetery I haven’t heard of a problem. Every case needs to be dealt with individually, and it’s a legal requirement that some deaths must be investigated.

“I think writing to the coroner would have suggested there was an problem and we have very good relations already.”

Councillor Riaz will be standing as the Labour Party’s candidate for Cathedral Ward in elections on May 3. Conservative candidate Nida Hassan will also stand.