§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Attorney-General what is the difference in time between a decree nisi and a degree absolute in divorce cases in England and in Northern Ireland; if he will take steps to shorten the period in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
The Attorney-GeneralIn Northern Ireland a decree nisi cannot be made absolute until six months has expired, unless a shorter time is fixed by a court in any particular case. In England the period is six weeks. Any proposal to shorten the period in Northern Ireland would require legislation, which would be a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State.