§ 37. Mr. Dewarasked the Solicitor-General for Scotland when he expects to discuss with the Lord President the report of Lord Cowie's committee on divorce procedure.
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandMy right hon. and noble Friend the Lord Advocate hopes to initiate consultations in the near future with the Lord President regarding the report of Lord Cowie's working party.
§ Mr. DewarDoes the hon. and learned Gentleman accept that this should be given a high priority at a time when the average fee for an undefended divorce is spiralling to over £400 or £500? May we have an assurance that the Government will take action to reform the divorce law procedures? After the lengthy consultation on the Law Commission's report on the legal services generally, does the hon. and learned Gentleman agree that this is something that should be seperated from the general considerations in the report and acted upon?
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandYes. This is an important matter. The hen. Gentleman will appreciate that, of the spiralling sum, 92 per cent. goes to his part of the profession. I do not think that removing such procedures from the Court of Session will alter that.
§ Mr. Robert HughesIs the hon. and learned Gentleman considering the vexed question of reciprocal custody orders between Scotland and England? How soon will they be agreed?
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandThis is a matter of considerable negotiation, report and consideration by the Law Commission. I hope that it will shortly be agreed.