Missing People has made a written submission to the Justice Select Committee as part of its inquiry into presumption of death provisions in England and Wales.

Tasked with the job of monitoring the Ministry of Justice’s work, the Justice Select Committee will be examining whether the present system is fit for purpose, and whether legal reform along the lines of Scotland and Northern Ireland would be beneficial. The oral evidence sessions of the inquiry will take place in autumn, and Missing People’s submission demonstrates strong support for improving this area of law.

The charity has been calling for a Presumption of Death Act for England and Wales as part of the Missing Rights campaign, as our research shows that families can find the present system costly, confusing and cumbersome. An Act would overcome many of the challenges families and professionals face, whilst also introducing legal parity across the UK in ensuring that all families – regardless of which nation they live in –  are able to access a simple and straightforward process.

Click here to download and read the charity’s submission to the Select Committee. If you would like to share your story of using the presumption of death system, please contact Holly Towell, Policy Advisor, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or on 020 8392 4566.