Modernising Wills Law Commission Report 2026-06-30
2026-06-30
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Law Commission's comprehensive review of wills law was published on May 16, 2025.
What steps are being taken to implement the recommendations in the Law Commission's report entitled “Modernising Wills Law”, published on 16 May 2025?
The law governing wills has not changed substantially since 1837. The Government welcomes the Law Commission's comprehensive and thorough review; they will be taking their time to consider it, and will respond in due course.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps or timeline for implementing the recommendations were not provided.
Taking Our Time To Consider
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
In 2018, the questioner began a campaign to abolish the rule stipulating that remarriage in England and Wales revokes any previous will. This rule is seen as archaic and potentially abused by unscrupulous individuals.
Will the Government now commit to accepting the Law Commission's recommendation that the rule which states that marriage revokes a will be abolished?
I commend my hon. Friend on his work, looking at how we can combat predatory marriages and those who prey on the vulnerable. The Law Commission's recommendation is well evidenced; we will take a holistic look at the issue but will certainly consider carefully.
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Assessment & feedback
A commitment to accepting the recommendation was not given.
Holistic Look
Consider Carefully
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises in the context of Fabian Hamilton's work on modernising wills law and ensuring that Northern Ireland can benefit from similar protections.
What steps is her Department taking to ensure that the insights and drafting expertise in the “Modernising Wills Law” report are taken on board by the Northern Ireland Executive, to ensure families in Northern Ireland can benefit from updated legislation against predatory marriage?
As we consider the Law Commission's recommendations, we will of course consider how they might lead to law changes and law reform across the United Kingdom. However, where matters are devolved, we respect that as well.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps for Northern Ireland were not outlined.
Where Matters Are Devolved
Response accuracy