Member

We asked for and obtained assurances from the previous Administration that paper proceedings would still be available where online procedure rules were introduced. I am pleased to note that paragraph 5.4 of the Explanatory Memorandum makes it clear that, in relation to the digital possession service that the Minister mentioned, paper routes will still be available. However, this SI is wider than simply the digital possession service, as the Minister pointed out. It is to apply to First-tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal property proceedings, when funding and digital developments allow, and will also apply to financial remedies in family proceedings. So we seek an assurance that paper proceedings will still be possible in those other areas when online procedure rules are made specifically for them.