Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Probate

Tuesday 18 May 2021 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Resources have been increased for handling calls and inquiries regarding probate applications, resulting in an average processing time of four to six weeks.
  • A push towards digitization has occurred; in March, over 75% of grants were processed digitally.
  • The number of complex cases with difficulties has decreased by two thirds since January, from 2,500 to 650.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Wera Hobhouse Lib Dem Bath
Context

The question arises from the concern over long delays in probate application processing and miscommunication with applicants.

Question

What steps are being taken to reduce the time taken for granting probate, given that some constituents face significant delays and communication issues?

Answer from Chris Philp

Resources have been increased for handling calls and inquiries regarding probate applications, resulting in an average processing time of four to six weeks. A push towards digitization has also occurred; in March, over 75% of grants were processed digitally.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific case scenario involving communication failures was not directly addressed with a concrete plan for improvement.

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Q2 Wera Hobhouse Lib Dem Bath
Justice & Courts
Context

A constituent's probate process was delayed for nine months due to a mix-up involving the wrong will being sent initially, followed by its loss. The issue highlights systemic problems with communication.

Question

One of my constituents faced delays and miscommunication in their probate application process. They received the wrong will and had no information when it was lost again after being corrected. It took nine months for probate to be granted from initial application. Can you tell me what measures are in place to improve communication so that such experiences do not occur?

Answer from Chris Philp

Distressing cases like this are rare; I encourage Members encountering them to write to the Ministry of Justice for rapid resolution. The number of complex cases with difficulties has decreased by two thirds since January, from 2,500 to 650. Use of the digital system is urged as it allows straightforward cases to be issued in one week and stopped cases within four weeks.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific issue with communication failure was not directly addressed; the Minister focused on overall improvements rather than concrete steps for better communication.

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