CO129-610-5 Marriages solemnized in Stanley Camp during the Japanese occupation and subsequent legislation for divorce 14-2-1947 - 27-6-1947 — Page 67

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decree of divorce can be obtained. In that event the effect of

not validating the divorce would be to expose innocent parties,

who relied on the dicta of high government officials, to charges

of bigamy and possibly to render their children illegitimate.

3.

I therefore propose, in view of this re-marriage,

and contrary to the proposals in paragraph 5 of my despatch under

reference, to introduce validating legislation. This is in

accordance with the opinion expressed in paragraph 3 of your

despatch No. 265 of 19th December, 1946, and I should be glad to

know if this opinion is still held.

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I should also be glad if you would confirm that in

the event of legislation being introduced, it should be introduced

as a Government measure and not as a Private Bill.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,

Mark your

GOVERNOR.