A Bill to make provision in relation to the presumed deaths of missing persons; and for connected purposes.
This Bill would enable the High Court to make a ‘declaration of presumed death’ where a missing person is thought to have died, or has not been known to be alive for at least seven years. A Register of Presumed Deaths would be maintained by the Registrar General. Any person would be able to apply to the High Court for the making of a declaration. However, where the application was made by someone who is not a spouse, civil partner, or close relative of the missing person, the High Court would hear the application only if the applicant had a ‘sufficient interest’ in the making of the declaration.
House of Commons
25 June 2009
This Bill would allow the High Court to declare a missing person presumed dead if they have not been known to be alive for at least seven years or if it is thought they have died. It would establish a national Register of Presumed Deaths kept by the Registrar General. Anyone could apply to the High Court, but applicants who are not spouses, civil partners, or close relatives must show a sufficient interest for the court to hear their case.
The bill is at the second reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move on to committee stage and further readings.
Generated 21 February 2026
The Bill was dropped by its sponsor and will not progress further this Session.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.
