Pendle MP, Gordon Prentice, last night voted against Government proposals to allow inquests without juries.

The proposal, in the Coroners and Justice Bill, would be triggered where Ministers claimed national security was involved or where the public interest would, in some way, be affected.

The Minister would certify that security considerations applied and then the matter would go before a judge.

Speaking from Westminster, the MP said: "Juries are not usually involved in inquests into a person’s death. But where someone dies in police custody or the State may be in some way responsible, then a jury is, in my view, needed."

The MP added: "If there are fears about information leaking out, the inquest can be held in camera."

"People must have confidence in the integrity of inquests and the role of the jury is central."