King Richard burial review granted

The face of King Richard III is unveiled to the media at the Society of Antiquaries, London. PIC: PA

Many of his relatives want the body buried in York, claiming it was the King’s wish.

A High Court judge in London has given permission to the Plantagenet Alliance to bring judicial review proceedings against the Justice Secretary and the University of Leicester.

Richard was killed at the battle of Bosworth in 1485 and was hurriedly buried in the church of the Greyfriars in Leicester, which was subsequently lost during redevelopment.

Mr Justice Haddon-Cave, in granting permission for a hearing later in the year, said: “The archaeological discovery of the mortal remains of a former King of England after 500 years is without precedent.

“In my judgment, it is plainly arguable that there was a duty at common law to consult widely as to how and where Richard III’s remains should appropriately be re-interred.

“I grant permission to the claimant to bring judicial review proceedings against the Secretary of State for Justice and the University of Leicester on all grounds.”

Mr Justice Haddon-Cave said: “It is ironic that the Wars of the Roses appear to be returning whence they started - the Temple.

“Legend has it that John Beaufort and Richard Plantagenet picked the symbolic red and white roses in Inner and Middle Temple gardens...

“I would, however, urge the parties to avoid embarking on the (legal) Wars of the Roses Part 2.

“In my view, it would be unseemly, undignified and unedifying to have a legal tussle over these royal remains.

“This would not be appropriate, or in the country’s interests. The discovery of Richard III’s remains engages interests beyond those of the immediate parties, and touches on sovereign, state and church.

“For these reasons, I would strongly recommend that parties immediately consider referring the fundamental question - as to where and how Richard III is reburied - to an independent advisory panel made up of suitable experts and Privy Councillors, who can consult and receive representations from all interested parties and make suitable recommendations with reasonable speed.”