Written question asked by Patsy Calton (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 23 January 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 30 January 2002. It was answered by Barbara Roche (Labour) on Wednesday, 30 January 2002 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

Cabinet Office

Question: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister, what assessment he has made of the impact that the enactment of the Relationships (Civil Registration) Bill would have on Government servants who are in long-term unmarried partnerships.

Answer: Mrs. Calton: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what assessment he has made of the impact that the enactment of the Relationships (Civil Registration) Bill would have on Government servants who are in long-term unmarried partnerships. [30814] Mrs. Roche: Civil partnership registration and associated rights and responsibilities raise a number of complex issues, which have prompted a growing debate within society and the Government are watching this debate with interest. These issues potentially have significant financial and administrative implications and the Government cannot commit themselves to making any changes in these areas before undertaking a comprehensive analysis of all the implications. The Government are examining the issues in detail.

Secondary information