I believe that the spirit/intent of the Fatal Accident and Sudden Deaths Inqiry Act 1976 is best summed up by the words of Lord Campbell of Croy in the House of Lords on 9th Dec 1975
"The noble Lord, Lord Kirkhill, was explaining to us a few minutes ago the changes suggested in this Bill. First, it is suggested that in future a fatal accident inquiry should be mandatory for an accident occurring during any employment and not restricted to industrial employment. I notice that the words "or occupation" are included in the Bill, so it seems that an accident in virtually any kind of employment will now fall within the scope of this Bill".
The Convener of the Jusice Committee said on 5th May;
It is not just "employment"; it is "employment or occupation". Therefore, even if there is an argument—which I do not necessarily agree with—that a person is not employed by the services because of the system under which people join the armed forces, it is still their "occupation".
Everyone sees it, except the Crown Office.
DV