HC Deb 08 December 1970 vol 808 c237
29. Mr. Awdry

asked the Attorney-General whether he will take steps to prevent the publication of wills of deceased persons.

The Attorney-General

No, Sir. Although there are arguments on both sides, my noble Friend and I do not consider that the case for changing the law in that way is made out.

Mr. Awdry

Will my right hon. and learned Friend look at this again? Many people think that this confidential information should not be published as this is an invasion of privacy.

The Attorney-General

That is one point of view, as expressed by my hon. Friend. Nevertheless, there is a very important and, in my view, overriding public interest, and that is the possibility of abuse if wills are not published. In those circumstances, my reply is that we have no plans for introducing legislation on the matter.

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