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170
In 66 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," which is highly convenient, and
much appreciated by medical practitioners. This "place" is
designed "for the reception of dead bodies for and during the
time required to conduct any post-mortem examination ordered
by the coroner;" who "may order the removal of the body for
carrying out such post-mortem examination, and the re-removal
of such body; the cost of such removal and re-removal to be
paid in the same manner, and out of the same fund, as the costs
and fees for post-mortem examinations when ordered by the
coroner." (Sanitary Act, 1866, sec. 28.) The coroner now
frequently orders the removal of bodies for this purpose—but at
your Vestry's charge.
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 obtain the removal of the
body in such cases by Justice's Order (Sanitary Act, 1866,