HC Deb 12 June 1967 vol 748 cc67-8
3. Mr. Tinn

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action Her Majesty's Government propose to take to facilitate collection of maintenance payments on behalf of a divorced wife from an ex-husband who has emigrated to a non-Commonwealth country.

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. William Rodgers)

We are considering the amendment of existing legislation in order to provide facilities for the enforcement, on a reciprocal basis, of maintenance and affiliation orders emanating from courts of foreign countries.

Mr. Tinn

Is my hon. Friend aware that that reply will give considerable satisfaction since the incidence of hardship in individual cases far exceeds the number involved? Those affected will be most reassured and pleased to hear that the Government are planning legislation along these lines.

Mr. Rodgers

I appreciate what my hon. Friend has said. This is a genuine human problem, and we are doing all that we can to help.

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