STORY
The Government has launched a consultation on strengthening legal protections for unmarried couples when relationships end. Ministers said the review would invite views from the public, legal professionals, academics, charities and other interested groups.
The consultation will run for 10 weeks and is intended to consider whether the law provides fair outcomes for cohabiting couples. The Government said many people incorrectly assume that long-term unmarried partners already have similar rights to married couples or civil partners.
The issue affects millions of people across England and Wales and has been the subject of repeated calls for reform. Ministers said the consultation would help determine whether changes are needed to provide clearer and fairer protections when relationships break down.