Dear all 

Further to the summary update this morning, and to clarify that communication, the full picture as respects the Inquest process is currently that -

1. The Coroner is to appoint an expert witness to consider how Belly contracted covid. The legal test is whether or not it is more likely than not (balance of probabilities (51% likely)) that Belly contracted covid at work or she contracted it elsewhere/outside of work. I summarised that test in the earlier update as whether it was (51%) likely Belly contracted it at work, which was not the full legal test. 

2. The Interested Parties (including the family) can challenge that expert evidence with their own independent expert if they disagree with the expert report of the expert appointed by the Coroner.

3. There will be a further hearing in April 2022. We should be informed at that time if the Inquest which has been provisionally listed for 7 days commencing on 27 June 2022 is to proceed.  

4. If the Inquest does go ahead in June 2022 we anticipate that Mr AB may have to give evidence as a witness to the events at work on 21 March 2020 that Belly suffered before having to shield. This will provide the first opportunity for him to be properly questioned and have to account for his conduct. We also anticipate that evidence will be provided as to the standard of health and safety at Victoria Station in March 2020.   

5. During the Inquest process, we have suspended our intended application to the High Court to force the British Transport Police to release Mr AB's name so that we can sue him for his alleged assault on Belly. 

Onwards and upwards,

Lawrence