HL Deb 09 July 1971 vol 321 cc1317-8WA
THE MARQUESS OF WINCHESTER

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they would reconsider the position regarding divorces in Rhodesia granted by judges appointed after the Unilateral Declaration of Independence.

THE MARQUESS OF LOTHIAN

In view of the provision already made, as described in my Answer to the noble Marquess's following Question on the same subject, Her Majesty's Government do not consider any further action is necessary regarding the position of divorces granted in Southern Rhodesia by judges appointed after the illegal declaration of independence.

THE MARQUESS OF WINCHESTER

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are aware of the hardships caused to British individuals as a result of the present position regarding Rhodesia divorces.

THE MARQUESS OF LOTHIAN

It was to alleviate possible hardship resulting from the invalidity in this country of certain divorce decrees granted in Southern Rhodesia that Her Majesty's Government made the Southern Rhodesia (Matrimonial Jurisdiction) Order 1970 (S.I. 1970/1540), which came into effect on November 16 last year. This Order has extended the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom courts to entertain proceedings for divorce or decree of nullity for persons from Southern Rhodesia without requiring them to have the normal domiciliary or residential qualifications in this country.

House adjourned at seventeen minutes before five o'clock.