Bill · started in the Commons
Presumption of Death Bill
A Bill to make provision in relation to the presumed deaths of missing persons; and for connected purposes.
In progress
Current stage: 2nd reading (Commons)
The story so farThe Presumption of Death Bill was introduced in the House of Commons on 21 January 2009 by Mr Tim Boswell (Conservative). It is now at second reading in the House of Commons. Second reading is the first debate on the overall principle of the bill; if the bill clears it, detailed committee scrutiny follows.
What the bill does
<p>This Bill would enable the High Court to make a ‘declaration of presumed death’ where a missing person is thought to have died, or has not been known to be alive for at least seven years. A Register of Presumed Deaths would be maintained by the Registrar General. Any person would be able to apply to the High Court for the making of a declaration. However, where the application was made by someone who is not a spouse, civil partner, or close relative of the missing person, the High Court would hear the application only if the applicant had a ‘sufficient interest’ in the making of the declaration.</p>
Progress through Parliament
- 1st reading Commons 21 Jan 2009
- 2nd reading Commons Current
Source: the official bill page. Last updated 25 Jun 2009.