§ 36. Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received about the difficulties and delays in enforcing court orders in respect of maintenance payments to divorced and separated women; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. JohnWe receive about 70 letters a year on the enforcement of maintenance. The majority are complaints by persons seeking to enforce an order. I appreciate the hardship caused to women who do not receive the payments to which they are entitled, but the powers of magistrates' courts are already extensive and we do not think there is scope for further sanctions against defaulters.