14 FEBRUARY 1931, Page 20

WILLS AND INTESTACIES (FAMILY MAIN- TENANCE) BILL (ENGLAND AND WALES)

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR, We believe that many of your readers will be interested in the above Bill which is being introduced by Miss Eleanor Rathbone and, as you know, will come before the House of Commons for its second reading on Friday, February 20th. When Lord Astor raised the subject in the House of 'Lords some two years ago, very great interest was expressed throughout the country. The principle underlying the Bill is that a testator must leave a certain proportion 'of his estate to the surviving spouse and minor children. As you know, England stands almost alone in allowing a testator to will away his money from his dependants. The proposed Bill endeavours to bring the law into line with other civilized countries, the majority of which, like Scotland, are based on the Roman Law which demands a certain proportion Of the estate for the surviving family.—I am, Sir, &c., .

. GERTRUDE HORTON.

National Union of Societies for Equal Citizenship,.

15- Dean's Yard, Westminster, S.W: 1. - •