§ Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer on what basis maintenance payments are awarded to divorced or separated wives; and if maintenance is paid to provide a total income or as a compensatory benefit.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI have been asked to reply.
Maintenance is awarded under the Matrimonial Proceedings (Magistrates' Courts) Act 1960 and the Matrimonial Proceedings and Property Act 1970, which in general empower the court to make such order as is reasonable in the circumstances of the case. Where the order is made on granting a decree of divorce, nullity of marriage or judicial separation the court is required to have regard in particular to the matters listed
356Wexchange rates, in the following countries: United States of America, West Germany, France, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. NottThe figures are:
years of age in the following countries; United Kingdom, USA, Canada, Netherlands, France, Germany, Australia and New Zealand.
Mr. NortThe figures are:
in Section 5 of the 1970 Act. These include the respective needs, resources and earning capacities of the parties, their ages, the duration of the marriage and the standard of living to which they have been accustomed.