Eamonn Holmes Explodes in Fury Over ‘Sickening’ Plans to Reuse War Heroes’ Graves in England and Wales

GB News star Eamonn Holmes has strongly criticized plans that could allow existing graves across England and Wales to be reused, raising concerns about the potential disturbance of war graves. The controversial proposal, which has prompted a campaign by a West Yorkshire resident, aims to address the shortage of burial space, particularly in urban areas, but has sparked outrage for its impact on the dignity of the deceased.

Speaking on GB News’s People’s Channel, Eamonn expressed his deep disapproval, stating, “I very distinctly say no, no, no on this. No respect whatsoever. This means that your grandparents, or my grandparents, would be affected.”

Holmes, whose own family includes war heroes, highlighted the disrespect he believes the proposal shows to those who sacrificed their lives for the country. “My grandfather, who fought in the First World War, and my grandmother who died in 1964, I would have no contact with her,” he explained, according to GB News.

Eamonn also spoke passionately about his personal connection to gravesites, saying, “I go to my parents’ graves every time I’m back in Belfast and I sit and I talk to them by the graveside. I am happy to pray and reflect there. Why should that be taken away from me?” He continued, expressing frustration at the perceived double standard, noting that while certain religious concerns receive public attention, the protection of Christian graves seems overlooked. “Nobody cares, nobody seems to care,” he said.

The plan to allow the reuse of graves is supported by the Law Commission, which argues that it would increase burial capacity and reduce costs related to preparing new burial lands. However, critics, including campaigner Christine Leeman from Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, have launched a petition against the proposals. Leeman said, “I would be absolutely appalled at the thought that any grave that’s 75 years old over, and if this law gets passed, then they can dig that person up.”

The concern over war graves is particularly significant, with Leeman pointing out that Dewsbury Cemetery contains 124 war heroes’ graves. Local resident Paul Halloran also voiced his opposition, calling the plans “abhorrent.” He added, “These are people’s family members. There are war graves in here. I mean, just in the term alone, just using the term dig up is horrendous.”

The Law Commission’s proposal is currently under review after a public consultation, with final recommendations expected later this year.