§ Maria EagleTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence under what circumstances his Department will pay the legal costs of armed forces personnel in divorce proceedings; and for what ranks. [96431]
§ Mr. SpellarDivorce is considered to be a personal and private issue between the individuals concerned. It is not considered appropriate, therefore, that such costs should be borne by the public purse. However, Armed Forces personnel serving in Northern Ireland or overseas can obtain free legal advice on procedure from the Army Legal Service. Similarly, their spouses can receive free advice from the RAF Legal Service.