David Lammy’s proposed cohabitation law would be bad for couples – and worse for some women | Ruth Deech

Politics The Guardian By Ruth Deech 14 Jul 2026 10:38 1 min read

The government’s worthy attempt to give cohabiting partners marriage-like rights fails to protect women who have chosen financial independence Andy Burnham will walk into No 10 on 20 July to a bulging in-tray of policies, proposals – and problems. One he may be less aware of is a ticking political timebomb launched by David Lammy in his role as justice secretary, which could affect millions of people who have chosen not to marry. Under Lammy’s proposal, couples who have lived together for three

The government’s worthy attempt to give cohabiting partners marriage-like rights fails to protect women who have chosen financial independence

Andy Burnham will walk into No 10 on 20 July to a bulging in-tray of policies, proposals – and problems. One he may be less aware of is a ticking political timebomb launched by David Lammy in his role as justice secretary, which could affect millions of people who have chosen not to marry.

Under Lammy’s proposal, couples who have lived together for three years, or who have a child together, would automatically acquire marriage-like legal obligations they never agreed to, meaning either partner could ask a court to make financial orders if the relationship ends.

Ruth Deech is a cross-bench peer and former law lecturer

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