Lucy Letby inquiry: how do statutory and non-statutory inquiries differ?

A non-statutory inquiry had previously been declared to be the ‘most appropriate option’ to look into Letby’s crimes. Photograph: Cheshire constabulary/Reuters

Ministers have announced the inquiry into the serial killer Lucy Letby’s crimes will become statutory after pressure from bereaved families and their lawyers.

A non-statutory inquiry had previously been declared to be the “most appropriate option” to look into the circumstances at Countess of Chester hospital. However, the health secretary, Steve Barclay, announced on Wednesday it would have statutory powers.