We have lots of questions but no voice, say survivors

Survivors of the July 7 bombings told of their disappointment today that they will "have no voice" at the inquest despite welcoming the decision to question MI5 officers.

Jacqui Putnam, a survivor of the Edgware Road attack, said: "We have many questions that need answering. We were allowed to submit these questions to the security services but these questions were not answered.

"Our role now will only be one of answering questions which we will do willingly if we are asked, but our questions will not be answered.

"We feel like we have been shunted aside and we will have no voice. There is disappointment there."

But relatives of those killed told of their delight that MI5 officers will appear at the inquest and that the bombers' inquests will be heard separately. Ros Morely, whose husband Colin was killed, said: "There would have been nothing positive about the inquests into bombers being held at the same time as 52 innocent people. We are all very relieved that is not the case. But it's not just looking at the past. We want the inquests to look at the present and future.

"If there was any alleged failing, it would be good to learn something from that. That would be something positive to come out of this."

Their solicitor Clifford Tibber said he would not rule out appealing against the coroner's decision.

Ernest Adams, who lost his son James, said: "I understand why survivors are disappointed that they cannot be present at the inquest but they can always submit their view to the judge through their solicitors if they have concerns.

"They will be able to monitor the hearing and take part that way. Today's decision is the best thing that could have happened for families of victims, but this is not a victory."