Petition Introduce a default will

Where no will exists this often causes much dispute and suffering. Common law spouses who have paid much of a mortgage can be evicted from the house with no recompense. This is clearly unfair.

The government should change the law so that if no explicit will exists then a standard will which covers all normal situations will take effect. Common law spouses should treated as other laws now treat them. Contribution made to mortgages should be taken into account. Ex-wives or husbands should have no claims, as a divorce should have settled any such claim.

Last year the Treasury gained £53m from people who died intestate - without a will. The year before it was £76m. If there is no surviving relative surely this money should go to a suitable charity, such as NSPCC, Bernardos etc. This money has already been taxed and should not go to the government.