Yahoo News Public inquiry into Grenfell tragedy formally opens
The public inquiry into the causes of the Grenfell Tower fire will be formally opened today, with retired High Court judge Sir Martin Moore-Bick setting out details of how it will operate.
But it hasn't yet been announced when it will begin to hear evidence, or even where future hearings will be held.
It is believed around 80 people died in the fire in west London in June, though many of the victims have yet to be positively identified.
:: Grenfell inquiry: Who is Sir Martin Moore-Bick?
Sir Martin Moore-Bick has previously faced criticism and barracking at a public consultation meeting from some in the community who feel he knows little about public housing or the area.
When he set out his terms of reference he suggested that he would want to bring in "a diverse group of people" with experience, but so far no appointments have been announced.
Peter Herbert, the chair of the Society of Black Lawyers, tried and failed to get a judicial review of the make-up of the Inquiry.
He called the public consultation "shambolic", telling Sky News: "There are very valid concerns about the leadership of this and that is why appointing diverse panel members is absolutely vital to deliver a credible inquiry which has a valid search for the truth."
Sir Martin's opening statement will be delivered at a central London hotel, which relatives of victims and survivors can attend, but a video stream will also be shown at Notting Hill Methodist Church close to Grenfell Tower.
The minister the Reverend Mike Green says he will be willing to testify at the inquiry about what he described as a chaotic response by officials in the days after the fire.
"I'd hope that all the questions that people have will be answered, that justice will not only be done but seen to be done, that people will trust in the process, and that it will do the job properly and be genuinely representative.
"That's probably a lot to hope for, but it's certainly an ideal that we cling to."
Ahmed Chellat lost five relatives in the fire. Only two have so far been positively identified.
:: Grenfell inquiry: Six questions victims want answered
He is surprised that a venue big enough to hold 200 people has been chosen for the opening, but no location has been announced for future sessions.
"Surely those people will be attending every day. Myself, I will be attending every day. I want to know what happened."
An initial report on the cause of the fire and why it spread so quickly is expected to be delivered by Easter next year.
Other issues, such as fire regulations and the role played by the local council before and after the disaster, will take longer to resolve.
Tap or click on the images below to learn more about the confirmed victims.
