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Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill [HL]

A Bill to make in relation to marriage and civil partnership in England and Wales provision about divorce, dissolution and separation; and for connected purposes

Originating House

House of Lords

Last Updated

8 November 2019

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would reform the law on divorce, the dissolution of civil partnerships, and separation in England and Wales. It covers provisions for marriage and civil partnerships and related matters, updating the legal framework. It is currently at the second reading in the Lords.

Key Points

  • Reforms divorce, dissolution of civil partnerships, and separation in England and Wales.
  • Includes provisions related to marriage and civil partnerships and other connected purposes.
  • Originating in the Lords; currently at the second reading in the Lords.
  • The second reading in 2020 passed by a large majority (231 in favour, 16 against), showing broad cross-party support.
  • Parliamentary documents available include Library Notes, Delegated Powers Memorandum, and Explanatory Notes.

Progress

The bill is at the Lords' second reading. If it progresses, it would move to committee stage in the Lords and then to the House of Commons for consideration.

Voting

In the Lords' second reading, the bill was approved 231 votes to 16. Major parties supported it (Conservatives, Labour, Lib Dems), with some opposition from the DUP and a few smaller groups.

Who is affected?

People married in England and WalesPeople in civil partnerships in England and WalesIndividuals seeking divorce, dissolution or separationChildren and families of those going through divorce or dissolutionSpouses, civil partners and former partnersLegal professionals (solicitors, barristers, judges) involved in family lawCourts and public bodies dealing with family law

Generated 21 February 2026

How Parties Are Voting

Based on 1 recorded vote • Sorted by % Aye

Labour (Co-op)Generally For
19 / 0
Liberal DemocratGenerally For
3 / 0
ConservativeGenerally For
42 / 4
Reform UKGenerally Against
1 / 2
Democratic Unionist PartyGenerally Against
0 / 2
Social Democratic & Labour PartyMixed
0 / 0
Scottish National PartyMixed
0 / 0
Plaid CymruMixed
0 / 0
IndependentMixed
0 / 0
Sinn FéinMixed
0 / 0
SpeakerMixed
0 / 0
Your PartyMixed
0 / 0

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Divorce, Dissolution and Separation

1 Jan 1970

First reading took place on 15 October. This stage is a formality that signals the start of the Bill's journey through the Lords.

Second reading - the general debate on all aspects of the Bill - is yet to be scheduled.

The 2017-19 Parliament dissolved at the end of the 2019 Session and this Bill will make no further progress.

Documents (4)

Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill [HL]: Briefing for Lords Stages
Library NotesLords
30 Oct 2019
Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill: Delegated Powers Memorandum
Delegated Powers MemorandumLords
16 Oct 2019
HL Bill 3 Explanatory Notes
Explanatory NotesLords
15 Oct 2019
HL Bill 3 (as introduced)
BillLords
15 Oct 2019

Parliamentary Votes (1)