“The evidence we heard from families faced with resolving these affairs is overwhelming. The law needs to be changed,” said Sir Alan Beith, chair of the committee.
In a report published today, the committee recommended the introduction of a ‘presumption of death’ act; provision for ‘guardianship’ orders to protect the finances of the missing person, or his or her dependents; and guidance from government and industry that would assist both families and those who provide services for them.
The MoJ is now expected to take up Tim Boswell’s Presumption of Death Private Member’s Bill.