16 Jul 2019

Damian Lines TEP, Partner and Head of our Wills, Trusts and Probate Department writes:

Earlier this year the UK Government sought to introduce a new fee system under which any application for probate – whether made personally or by solicitors, etc – would give rise to exorbitantly high application fees; in some cases, totalling several thousand pounds.

As a result of my concerns, I contacted the MP for Torfaen (who happens to be my own local MP) in order to raise the issue.

Some five months later – and significantly after the changes were due to take effect – I have received a response from Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, Member for Torfaen and Shadow Security Minister and Solicitor-General and I am pleased to note that he shares the concerns raised.

I understand from his response that the Government has indicated that it will consider bringing forward the necessary motion in Parliament to approve the change ‘in due course’.  Whenever that will be remains to be seen – especially with ‘Brexit’ and the appointment of a new Prime Minister!

In any event, once there is further news I will be sure to write.