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In 126 of the above cases post-mortem examinations were
made by authority, principally under the Coroner's warrant.
The mortuary comprises two chambers, for infectious and
non-infectious bodies respectively, separated by" a place provided
for post-mortem examinations." This "place" is designed
"for the reception of dead bodies during the time required to
conduct a post-mortem examination ordered by the Coroner"
who "may order the removal of a dead body to and from such
place, for carrying out such examination, and the cost of such
removal shall be deemed to be part of the expenses incurred in
and about the holding of an inquest."* Too little use is made
of the mortuary, and especially as a place of deposit for the
bodies of those who have died from infectious disease. Medical
men can effect the removal of the body, in such cases, by
Justice's Order (Public Health (London) Act, 1891, sec. 89) if
persons live or sleep in the room where the body is retained, or
if the body is in such a state, from decomposition, as to enda nge
the health of the inhabitants of the same house or room.
* Coroners' Act, 1887, sec. 24.