Garff MHK Daphne Caine’s divorce reform bill has completed its passage through the House of Keys.

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation (Isle of Man) Bill 2020 passed the clauses stage and third Keys reading and will now move to the Legislative Council.

Mrs Caine said: ’This legislation will enable a couple to apply jointly to split, hopefully ensuring a more amicable ending to a marriage or civil partnership.

’It is something that has the support of people who have long experience of the current system. It was also overwhelmingly endorsed by the public consultation, with 94% of respondents supporting the no fault divorce principle.’

Passing the clauses stage and third reading in one sitting enables it to go to LegCo before the recess and means residents could be able to apply for no fault divorces, and dissolutions of civil partnerships next year. The bill will be guided through LegCo by Jane Poole-Wilson MLC.