MOD makes statement following verdict on death of Lance Corporal of Horse Matty Hull

LCoH Matty Hull of The Blues & Royals, Household Cavalry Regiment, was killed on 28 March 2003 in southern Iraq when a US pilot fired on his convoy.

The Ministry of Defence has released this statement following the verdict:

"This has been a distressing process for LCoH Hull’s family and friends. The MOD has tried very hard to keep the Hull family fully informed at all times. We are very sorry for confusion and upset caused over the handling of the cockpit footage.

"We are carefully considering the Coroner’s comments and their full implications. Susan Hull, LCoH Matty Hull's widow, said that she hopes that lessons will be learned as a result of this inquest - we will do all that we can to ensure that this is the case.

"We hope that the inquest has helped them gain a fuller understanding of the circumstances surrounding LCoH Hull’s death.

"We have worked very closely with the Coroner during the inquest and note that he has placed on record his appreciation for our help.

"This inquest has highlighted the need for a more coherent approach to the management of documentation and evidence. A dedicated team has therefore been set up to support Coroners and bereaved Army families to ensure that relevant documentation is made available quickly and that issues concerning disclosure are resolved at an early stage.

"The team will also liaise with Coroners to facilitate the attendance of Service witnesses. The new team will work with the other two Services to foster an effective joint approach."