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Written question asked by Josh Babarinde (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 29 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 June 2026. It was answered by Catherine Atkinson (Labour) on Monday, 8 June 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.


Cohabitation: Succession

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, when the consultation into increasing inheritance rights for cohabitants will begin; when he expects it to be completed; when he expects proposals based on this consultation to be brought before Parliament; and which piece of legislation he expects the changes to be contained in.

Answer

The Government has committed to strengthening the rights of cohabitants and has launched the A Fairer End to Relationships consultation on potential reforms. This consultation includes proposed changes related to inheritance rights to ensure the law reflects modern relationships and family structures.

The consultation, and the responses received, will inform the Government’s approach. Any decision on legislation will be made following the conclusion of the consultation on 14 August 2026 and, if necessary, will be brought forward when parliamentary time allows.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
5055
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Cohabitation Public consultation Parliamentary scrutiny Succession
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk