Sorry, WM, not victorians, Burke & Hare operated before Victoria was crowned. She was about 8 at that time, and would become Queen 10 years later. Mind, I had to look 'em both up, until today I thought B&H were 18th century.

Like several others here, I don't see harm in excavating/exhuming provided that any remains found are treated with respect. I do feel, however, that a case exists for not disturbing where a longstanding family plot is still in use, with succeeding generations being added. We need to show sensitivity towards the still living.