§ 48. Mr. Robert Hughesasked the Solicitor-General for Scotland what discussions he has had with the Law Society of Scotland on the reciprocity of application of Scottish family law in the United Kingdom.
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandI have had no discussions with the Law Society but the position regarding reciprocal recognition and enforcement of orders for custody of children is currently being jointly considered by the two Law Commissions.
§ Mr. HughesWhile I am grateful to the Solicitor-General for that reply, does he not agree that the situation has become urgent and that speedy action is required not only on access to children in custody orders, but on the maintenance of children? Is the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that reciprocity needs to be applied to speed decisions on these matters?
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandA number of detailed arrangements are already in force for reciprocal enforcement of maintenance orders on both sides of the border. I accept that they are in many respects somewhat complicated, but if the hon. Gentleman has specific cases that he would like me to look into I should be glad to do so.
§ Mr. DewarWhen will the Government produce their proposals relating to the Scottish Law Commission's report on the financial settlement following divorce?
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandAs the House will be aware, a demonstration has already been given of the consideration to be applied to the recommendations of the English Law Commission on the same matter. However, as the hon. Gentleman will be aware from the terms of the Queen's Speech, there is no intention of dealing with it in the course of this Session.