§ 37. Mr. McKelveyasked the Solicitor-General for Scotland if he is satisfied with the operation of the Matrimonial Homes Act.
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandThe Government are aware of the criticisms made of the operation of the Act and are, as appropriate, taking steps to meet these criticisms, or ascertain how far they are justified, and to provide remedies by legislative and other means.
§ Mr. McKelveyI am grateful to the Solicitor-General. He will recall that during the progress of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Scotland) Bill there was discussion of the Matrimonial Homes Act 1981 and Women's Aid indicated disquiet about variations in judgments in the appropriate sheriff courts. I look forward to the result of his investigation and to any action that can be taken to remedy the problem.
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandAs I have already indicated to the hon. Gentleman, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland has commissioned research into the operation of the Act. It is expected that this will be available by the beginning of next year. If he has specific complaints about the operation of the Act and the involvement of the police or procurators fiscal in Scotland, I hope that he will make the details available to me.