HC Deb 14 November 1945 vol 415 cc2088-9
2. Mr. Sparks

asked the Attorney-General, in view of the congestion and long delay in proceedings for divorce promoted by Service and ex-Servicemen through the Law Society Poor Persons' Committee, if he will take steps to expedite proceedings to enable men with war service to re-establish homes for themselves at the earliest possible moment.

The Solicitor-General

My Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor has this matter under constant consideration. The serious delays which exist at present are due solely to shortage of manpower and scarcity of accommodation. Every effort is being made to remedy the position which my Noble Friend regards as one of great urgency.

Mr. Sparks

Is my hon. and learned Friend aware that a number of Service and ex-Servicemen have been left with the care of children, and that the long delay in the proceedings for divorce is causing them great anguish and anxiety? Will my hon. and learned Friend in cases of that description take some steps to expedite the proceedings?

The Solicitor-General

I cannot add to my answer that my Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor does regard the whole question as one that is extremely pressing, and it will be dealt with as soon and as effectively as possible.