Iain Duncan Smith's divorce proposals "patronising and out of touch"

By Ben Schofield on Jul 14, 09 11:14 AM

A CONSERVATIVE think tank's proposals for a compulsory three-month "cooling off" period before divorce proceedings can start are "completely out of touch with reality", according to a Cheshire family lawyer.

Sandra Sinclair, senior partner with SAS Daniels solicitors says the Every Family Matters report, which was published by the Social Justice Policy Group on Monday, is "deeply patronising". The think tank is led by ex-Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith.

Mr Duncan Smith suggests estranged couples should be required by law to undergo a three-month period before launching divorce proceedings so they can reflect on their marriage and examine the possibility of reconciliation.

It also suggests a range of measures to reform family law and "save saveable marriages", including the introduction of tax breaks to promote marriage, and reversing Government proposals to offer rights to unmarried cohabiting couples.

Ms Sinclair said: "This is not a well-thought-through proposal. There is already in place by law a compulsory period of one year from the date of the marriage before divorce proceedings can be instigated.

"This is typical of a potential paternalistic Executive which is completely out of touch with reality if they believe that separating couples take the decision to divorce lightly.

"For the vast majority of couples, it is the hardest decision for them to make, usually taken after months of excruciating and careful thought, sometimes associated with prolonged misery.

"This report and proposal is paternalistic and deeply patronising - couples should be free to make their own choices when it is right for them."

* To read a news story about the proposals, click here