§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what is his policy towards proposals to ban dowries in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement;
(2) how many representations he has received regarding dowries in the Asian community, and the exploitation of this practice; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. RumboldThe Home Office has received two representations about dowries, including one from the hon. Member. The Government are undertaking a number of initiatives to address the problem of domestic violence generally, but have no evidence to suggest that there is need to legislate specifically in connection with dowries.