asked the Minister for Justice if he has any proposals to increase the £4 maximum which the district court can award to a deserted wife.

I have a proposal before Government for an amendment of the law to provide for an increase in the maximum amount of maintenance which the district court may award to deserted wives and for the payment of maintenance allowances in respect of children in desertion cases.

I hope to be in a position to introduce the necessary legislation before the summer recess.