Mr. Michael J. FosterTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what guidance the Lord Chancellor's Department issues to courts on whether a person who has legally changed his or her name by(a) statutory declaration and (b) deed poll is required to reveal any former name when appearing in court as a witness, defendant or civil litigant, or when standing surety for bail. [99393]
§ Jane KennedyThe Lord Chancellor's Department has not issued any guidance to the courts. Whether a person's previous name is relevant in criminal or civil proceedings and needs to be disclosed depends on the issues in dispute and the surrounding circumstances and is for the court to decide.