8(1)An area coroner or assistant coroner for an area may perform any functions of the senior coroner for the area (including functions which that senior coroner has by virtue of section 2 or 3)—
(a)during a period when that senior coroner is absent or unavailable;
(b)at any other time, with the consent of that senior coroner.
(2)Accordingly a reference in a statutory provision (whenever made) to a senior coroner is to be read, where appropriate, as including an area coroner or assistant coroner.