Multiple wives will mean multiple benefits
By Jonathan Wynne-Jones
Last Updated: 1:52am GMT 04/02/2008


Husbands with multiple wives have been given the go-ahead to claim extra welfare benefits following a year-long Government review, The Sunday Telegraph can reveal.

Have your say: Should multiple wives get recognition from the state?
Even though bigamy is a crime in Britain, the decision by ministers means that polygamous marriages can now be recognised formally by the state, so long as the weddings took place in countries where the arrangement is legal.

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The outcome will chiefly benefit Muslim men with more than one wife, as is permitted under Islamic law. Ministers estimate that up to a thousand polygamous partnerships exist in Britain, although they admit there is no exact record.

The decision has been condemned by the Tories, who accused the Government of offering preferential treatment to a particular group, and of setting a precedent that would lead to demands for further changes in British law.

New guidelines on income support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) state: "Where there is a valid polygamous marriage the claimant and one spouse will be paid the couple rate ... The amount payable for each additional spouse is presently £33.65."

Income support for all of the wives may be paid directly into the husband's bank account, if the family so choose. Under the deal agreed by ministers, a husband with multiple wives may also be eligible for additional housing benefit and council tax benefit to reflect the larger property needed for his family.

The ruling could cost taxpayers millions of pounds. Ministers launched a review of the benefit rules for polygamous marriages in November 2006, after it emerged that some families had benefited financially.

The review concluded in December last year with agreement that the extra benefits should continue to be paid, the Government admitted. The decision was not publicly announced.

Four departments - the Treasury, the DWP, HM Revenue and Customs, and the Home Office - were involved in the review, which concluded that recognising multiple marriages conducted overseas was "the best possible" option. In Britain, bigamy is punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Islamic law permits men to have up to four wives at any one time - known as a harem - provided the husband spends equal amounts of time and money on each of them.

A DWP spokesman claimed that the number of people in polygamous marriages entering Britain had fallen since the 1988 Immigration Act, which "generally prevents a man from bringing a second or subsequent wife with him to this country if another woman is already living as his wife in the UK".

While a married man cannot obtain a spouse visa to bring a second wife into Britain, some multiple partners may be able to enter the country via other legal routes such as tourist visas, student visas or work permits.

In addition, officials have identified a potential loophole by which a man can divorce his wife under British law while continuing to live with her as his spouse under Islamic law, and obtain a spouse visa for a foreign woman who he can legally marry.

"Entry clearance may not be withheld from a second wife where the husband has divorced his previous wife and the divorce is thought to be one of convenience," an immigration rulebook advises. "This is so, even if the husband is still living with the previous wife and to issue the entry clearance would lead to the formation of a polygamous household."

Chris Grayling, the shadow work and pensions secretary, said that the decision was "completely unjustifiable".

"You are not allowed to have multiple marriages in the UK, so to have a situation where the benefits system is treating people in different ways is totally unacceptable and will serve to undermine confidence in the system.

"This sets a precedent that will lead to more demands for the culture of other countries to be reflected in UK law and the benefits system."

Mr Grayling also accused the Government of trying to keep the ruling quiet because the topic is so controversial.


Have your say




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Comments

The US is not far behind: Last year Muslim cabdrivers in Minnesota refused to take passengers with dogs, or with alcohol in their luggage. They wanted special cabs with lights to show that certain cabs would not drive such people. (They never got to refusing unescorted women). The Public Agency was seriously considering this until word leaked out and there was an uproar. But its happening evrywhere.

Now a man that moves to the UK can get benefits for two or more wives when working stiffs and their wives that toiled in the UK for years are limited to one benefit payment? This is fair?
Posted by SurferDude on February 4, 2008 9:14 PM
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I love the Brits' their style, class and culture but I guess all good things come to an end. It will soon be time to say hello to the religion of peace. Is is surprising that a whopping one in four Britons don't even believe wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill even existed?
Posted by David Brown USA on February 4, 2008 8:56 PM
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There should be only one law for the citizens of this country. Anyone living here should comply with the laws if this land or go to where they can live according to the law of their choice. The law of this land is that marriage is one man for one woman, there can be no exception.
Posted by Mrs Ann R. Gill on February 4, 2008 8:54 PM
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Absolute insanity...

I think you will find that the Qu'ran states that a man can have more than one wife as long as he can support each of them!

So seeing as the british public will be supporting them they are not being supported by their husbands.
'Islamic law' was formed for a deeply religious society without a welfare state/system and it is impossible to imagine that this 'law' would have been made in a country/culture with a welfare state where women were not dependant on their husbands for survival.

Can we expect a demonstration from muslims about this contravention of Islamic Law/teaching and massaging of the Qu'ran texts? Well I doubt it but its never stopped them before! So come on muslims get demonstrating about this mis-interpretation of your sacred texts!

You may think you can have it both ways but approximately 97% of the population of this country thinks otherwise!

Posted by David on February 4, 2008 7:57 PM
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I Haver heard it all now, NU Labour ( Closet Tory Party ) have definatley lost the plot.
Mc Bottle has not listened to the British public, get rid of him now, a return of the poll tax riots is on the cards !!!!
BNP show me where do I put my X.
Posted by Mike H on February 4, 2008 7:46 PM
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Why is everyone blaming this government? The decision was to continue with the existing legislation brought in by the Tories.
Posted by eamonn thomas on February 4, 2008 7:44 PM
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This is an outrageous move.Forget the cultural and race aspects of this - it is highly insulting to use my taxes to support a practice that is degrading to women. As a British working woman with the vote, I am totally offended.


Posted by sally armstrong on February 4, 2008 7:43 PM
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I am an American and this is the same kind of garbage we see here. Liveral politicians vote against anything to keep illegal immigrants out of our country because it's there voting base they rely on to get elected. Oh, do we require a person to prove there in this country legally, nope! It all comes down to politicians only looking out for who is going to get them elected, period! Think it's time for Churchhill to come back and kick some arse!!


Posted by Dan Smeltion on February 4, 2008 7:42 PM
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This is ruling is a pile of pure fertilzer.

Would any Islamic country change their laws in order to suit Westerners, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Jews or (enter your favorite group here)???
Posted by GM on February 4, 2008 7:38 PM
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congratulations,Brits,
it is time You disappear from Earth,
along with your football,5 o,clok tea
and jam,thanks to your idiotic politicians
Posted by irek M. on February 4, 2008 7:36 PM
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I can only suggest that people vote for the BNP as a protest vote. If we keep voting for the usual lot then nothing will ever change.
Posted by Keith Stephenson on February 4, 2008 7:31 PM
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I am a Brit living in the States all I can say to the government is "Shame on you!, British people will soon be the minority" I would never expect the U.S to pander to my tune I chose to live here so I have to abide by their rules, but it seems its different in Britain,
Posted by Joanne on February 4, 2008 7:28 PM
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There's NO WAY we should be doing this! We should apply the philosophy of "When in Rome." Bigamy is illegal in this country. How must our ageing population, who fought against Hitler, feel about this latest example of pusillanimous appeasement by simply the worst maladministration this country has suffered in centuries?
Posted by Colin Brownlee on February 4, 2008 7:27 PM
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"Where there is a valid polygamous marriage ..."

This "government review" and the guidelines they suggest contradicts itself and is contrary to law. Since polygamy is illegal in th UK, there can be no "valid" polygamous marriages no matter where those marriages took place. Good luck trying to collect additional benefits for an illegal, and hence invalid, polygamous marriage.
Posted by Ray on February 4, 2008 7:25 PM
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Yet you keep voting them in, until you radically change your views and vote by habit, you're done for. Goot to know you, Once Great Britain.
Posted by libsukbad on February 4, 2008 7:21 PM
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What is wrong with the rulers of Britain? Why are you bent on driving your country to the toilet? As an Indian citizen, I recollect how much grandfather used to praise the British for their discipline, sense of culture and mental fortitude. I guess, years of socialization (Dame Thatcher's reform notwithstanding) have driven the great British nation to the bottom of the pit. Where is the outrage folks? Are you going to bend over backwards to accomodate Dark Age philosophies? Why are you so craven to religious extremism? I'm glad my elders are no longer there to witnes the complete disintegration of the empire they admired most (although they were ironically subjects of that very empire). Sir Churchill must be spinning in his grave. Shame!
Posted by Sriraj on February 4, 2008 7:17 PM
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Multiple wives should NOT get additional benefits from the state. Mormons and Muslims will take a payday that is directly a result of religion - and how about that 'separation of church and state' issue? Seems to be a conflict right there.

Benefits should be based upon HOUSEHOLD.
Possibly CHILDREN.
But not on how many women a man has in his harem.
Posted by Papa on February 4, 2008 7:11 PM
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isn't in strange how many of the people who post here din't even bother to vote last election? people, you have the power to do away with these clowns once and for all. find out which party opposes immigration and support it tooth and nail. take to the streets and show the pols that brits still have a backbone. for God's sake britain, you ruled a third of the known world. try acting like the leaders you are and not a bunch of whining crybabies.
Posted by warren bacon on February 4, 2008 7:06 PM
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We were worned that mass imigration would be the downfall of Britain some thirty odd years ago by a man who was thrown out of office because of his views. How right time has proved his words to be. We need a Mandela type figure to lead our people (English) back to running our country in traditional english & christian way of life. Those imigrants who don't like it must go home.
Posted by John from Bucks on February 4, 2008 7:04 PM
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Only in this country !!
Posted by Gary Askham on February 4, 2008 7:00 PM
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Why are you complaining . . .you are the ones that keep voting these decision makers back in power.
Posted by Gary on February 4, 2008 6:58 PM
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I am watching this from an ocean apart (Canada) and I can frankly say that I am appealed at the your government.

every few days we're hit with the most idiotic news emerging from the UK. Last week was the 3 little pigs story and now this.

for crying out loud, speak up! Take action or 10 years from now we'll be looking at The Arabic state of the UK.

For some reasons these stories never feature our good old friends the Britons but rather some 1st or 2nd generation immigrant coming from a 3rd world country. For your own sanity, close your borders.
Posted by Nick B on February 4, 2008 6:42 PM
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I don't get it. Is it really mostly males here who have a problem with the amusing idea of having more than one wife? I can't help seeing the humor in this. Is it some kind of self-righteousness or just that you really, deeply love your own one wife whom you have continued to be attracted to more than anyone else? Or maybe just a contempt for any opportunity you might ever have for being sexually satisfied in the case that you are no longer sexually attracted to your one wife?
Posted by James Cassidy on February 4, 2008 5:07 PM
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So WHAT can we do about this ridiculous state of affairs ?
Posted by Dave Salmon on February 4, 2008 4:40 PM
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I think I need a room with soft walls, because can't take the wooly-headed nulabour anymore. Although, cynically, this is probably just another way to buy votes through the benefit system.


Posted by Robert Burntwing on February 4, 2008 4:39 PM
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Wow - nicely done Labour! You are pretty much guaranteeing that the UK will either end up as a Caliphate or under some rascist BNP regime - apparently there is no longer a middle choice. Good job Labour for surrendering like a ravening Frenchmen - and good job Tories for being a milquetoast opposition and abandoning basic conservative principals. You know your country is in trouble when only the freakish fringe parties are talking any sense.
Posted by Mike in NY on February 4, 2008 4:28 PM
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There are often times when I find the deicisions made by my Canadian government dumbfounding... then the British government always manages to up the ante! I feel for my British cousins, and ask aloud if issues like this are the reason for which I see so many Brit expats over here. Good luck lads.
Posted by Matt in Canada on February 4, 2008 4:28 PM
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Another ludicrous decision taking money much needed by pensioners and denying money to pay for expensive life saving drugs etc etc.


Posted by Albert Varnish on February 4, 2008 4:17 PM
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Absolutely unbelievable! It's bad enough having politicians who lack both leadership skills and management skills, but this suggests they are also completely lacking in common sense.
Posted by David Andrew on February 4, 2008 3:55 PM
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It just beggers belief. The lunatica are truely incharge of the asylum.
How dare they allow this to happen, its just more appeasement and double standards.
Posted by E Atkinson on February 4, 2008 3:21 PM
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The answer is simply no.But ask yourself the question : who really benefits from this? The answer is clearly Labour MP's and councellors who depend more and more on the ethniic vote to remain in power.

Every month/year throws up more examples of PC gone mad. Is it any wonder that the great British public is so apathethic about politics when quite clearly common sense is being ignored ?

The real sadness about this is that every decent knows it's wrong but so few people will say it. Even sadder it gives those who wish to divide this country along ethnic lines every opportunity to create those divisions.
Posted by Arthur Blackburn on February 4, 2008 3:06 PM
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Bigamy is illegal in the UK, end of story. One rule for one and one rule for another.If they want more than one wife they should stay in a counry where it is legal. When is this madness going to end? It's about time someone showed some courage and put all this rubbish to an end. Bye bye Labour Government.
Posted by Tim W on February 4, 2008 1:55 PM
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So now bigamy is acceptable in Britain - but only if you're a muslim. If you're not, you get up to 7 years in prison.
What do that shower in parliament think we are - stupid? If they keep this up, there will be bloodshed on our streets and it won't be down to Islamic extremism - it will be the poor old downtrodden, long suffering English who have finally had enough.


Posted by elizabeth on February 4, 2008 1:54 PM
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This is truly outrageous when people who deserve benefit support have to fight for it, yet this Government decide to use our tax payers money for something against the law!!
Can't see the French or Germans doing this?
Posted by Andy on February 4, 2008 1:52 PM
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You are(same as we europeans)doomed!!!
Posted by ottorongo on February 4, 2008 1:38 PM
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I'm absolutely speechless!!!
Posted by Janine on February 4, 2008 1:32 PM
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Pass the sick bucket. The time is ripe for a revolution - we cannot stand much more.
Posted by Caroline on February 4, 2008 1:23 PM
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That settles it. The BNP get my vote next election. Let's see if they can bring an end to this madness.
Posted by Martin on February 4, 2008 1:07 PM
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Is it the 1st April already??
Posted by Lorna Kay on February 4, 2008 11:27 AM
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Surely it is against the laws of this country to have more than one wife - bigamy. Does this mean any british person can go abroad and marry more than one wife and then claim for them. Also where does equality law come into this women are being treated like belongings.
Posted by Dorothy Easton on February 4, 2008 11:23 AM
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England can afford multiple benefits to multiple wives and yet say they cannot afford to index my pernsion becuase I live in Australia. Something a bit cock-eyed I think
Posted by Brian Fletcher on February 4, 2008 6:52 AM
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Seems like Sweden isn't alone in the madness. We have the same problem in our country. the muslim comunity is getting louder and louder. And their demands are not suitable for a democracy. I've given up and will vote for the swedish democrat party.

Posted by Mikael on February 4, 2008 6:48 AM
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The Mulsim community in the UK is really much more trouble than it is worth. Poor academic achievement, high unemployment and extremism. Not to mention idiot politicians pandering to their every whim. Sadly Britain is no more - the battle is lost. Voting the for the BNP will make no difference because of our undemocratic voting system, it will simply help Nu Lab. Last one out turn off the lights.
Posted by David on February 4, 2008 2:19 AM
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UNBELIEVABLE!!!And...Shame on the so called British Citizens who vote Labour because "I always have voted Labour". You poor misguided fools - you deserve all you get!!
Thank God I chose to seek greener pastures.
Posted by Norman Jones on February 4, 2008 2:16 AM
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Once I was an admirer of the British, of England,
of your great history, but meanwhile I simply feel
sorry for you all. In 1993, Samuel P. Huntington prognosticate 'The Clash of Civilizations' – he
was wrong, it's only a poor and very sad policy of
appeasement, a trivial surrender.
Good bye England, good bye Europe, good bye
civilization.


Posted by Peter Niedermann, Zurich on February 3, 2008 11:21 PM
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Yet another reason why so many Brits are leaving the UK. I live in the USA and will be leaving soon to return - but NOT to the UK. Until we get a government with some guts, common sense and the willingness to put the great back in britain
I will not be returning to this green and unpleasant land!!
Posted by anne duncan on February 3, 2008 9:46 PM
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The UK government must be stark raving mad
Posted by David Stronge on February 3, 2008 9:45 PM
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OK. where do I sign up for the BNP party.
Years ago a labour MP refused to admit she was British. I'm getting that way.
Posted by chris on February 3, 2008 7:52 PM
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Yet another disgraceful decision by
a gutless government. Extra cash for people who ignore our laws.Whilst our armed forces are cut to the bone.Perhaps Brown and co. would prefere to live in Asia. If you are not British you may live by your own laws. Or, indeed, labour will change them to suit you.
Posted by Anthony Portman on February 3, 2008 7:52 PM
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Bigamy is bigamy by any other name and in Britain it is illegal. Keep it that way for all by deporting those who have, or wish to have, multiple wives to a land where it is legal.
Posted by Jeff Jefferies on February 3, 2008 7:51 PM
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Absolutely unbelievable (Sunday Telegraph " benefits to be made to men with more than one wife". I was born, brought up and educated in this country, have recently retired and having put in 39 years full time NI contributions I now have the princely sum of 106.83 per week to live on. I cannot afford to heat my home during the day, I keep the electricity off as much as possible and then one picks up the Sunday Telegraph and reads, not only of MPs "fraud" with taxpayers money but now benefits will be made to a man with more than one wife. Its time we Britons rose up and protested about the way this country is being run and its people are treated. Come on everyone, remember the Jarrow marches, the General Strike, Ban the Bomb marches and Poll Tax protests? Britons have become soft and apathetic - come on young people - stand up and protest for your country.
Posted by Mrs Lesley Nichols on February 3, 2008 7:03 PM
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Has our government gone mad. Who dictates policy, PC correctness or common good sense, or even our rather zenophobic press. Ask yourself, how many women in this country want their husband to have a second wife that he can claim benfits for!!!
Posted by jan on February 3, 2008 7:02 PM
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Make NI contribution levels increase in direct proportion to the number of wives: x% of in for one wife; 2x% for two wives; 3x% for 5 wives; 4x% for four wives. No claim may be made for a wife for whom at least 4 years NI contributions have been paid. Benefits may only be claimed for the number of wives for which NI payments have been made.
Simple, equitable solution.
Posted by D Strathmore on February 3, 2008 7:00 PM
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Why should one's money be taken to subsidize bigamy? In a word, NO! I don' like subsidizing one bum, much less a crowd. Send them back to wherever that lifestyle is acceptable and let that country subsidize them.
Posted by Richard Al Ostergard on February 3, 2008 6:57 PM
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Could somebody cleverer than me please post here a properly organised 'letter of protest' which we may use to send to our MP and also the relevant Minister. I'm too angry to think straight and think I'd miss the salient points. Alternatively, how do we start a poll on the Downing St website?
Posted by m l on February 3, 2008 6:51 PM
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We need no further proof that the people runnong OUR country have finally lost the plot. Unfortunately they have too much time left in government in which to bring us all to our knees. No wonder so many of us feel that the pride and faith and confidence in our country is being eroded bit by insulting bit. E. Fennemore. (Mrs)
Posted by Eunice Fennemore on February 3, 2008 6:50 PM
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Seriously,didn't any of you Brits see this this kind of oppression coming from your government when you voluntarily gave up your rights to bear arms? Marxism on the left,Sharia on the right,stuck in the middle with no way to fight.
Posted by yank4u US on February 3, 2008 6:50 PM
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NO. NO. NO. NO. NO. NO. NO. NO. NO.
I don't care what country these people marry in. Bigomy is against British law? It should be a condition of immigration law that ONLY ONE WIFE will be recognised. If immigrants don't like it STAY OUT OF BRITAIN. If ministers want to subsidise these people they should foot the bill out of their own pockests NOT OURS. These people should get themselves out of the unholy mess they get themselves into and not expect the rest of us to dig them out. For heavens sake they will outnumber us in no time. My heart is bleeding for this country.
Posted by SICK TO DEATH OF THE LABOUR PARTY on February 3, 2008 6:49 PM
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Wow, a lot of comments on this story, must be within the all time highs. Are the politicians taking note of how we all feel against this ridiculous ruling? If Germany is going the same, sounds as though it is a European ruling that we must abide by.
Posted by Mark on February 3, 2008 6:47 PM
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In Belgium we have the same stupid governement,people of the UK you are not alone in Europistan.Vote for Mister Bean,the country will by better.
Posted by Georges on February 3, 2008 6:46 PM
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Of course not. "When in Rome do as the Romans do" Britain has laws and they should be observed. What is the gov't thinking of.
Posted by Keri Thomas on February 3, 2008 6:45 PM
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NO,no, no! This is the UK and were have our laws and anyone wanting to live here must accept them - be they Muslim, Mormon or whatever. If not, then they can live elsewhere.

Posted by Leonard Chandler on February 3, 2008 6:43 PM
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If I ever had doubts about leaving UKs shores, they are discounted by this ludicrous decision. For Heaven's sake you guys, you have to get behind Dave and be rid of McBroon as quickly as possible. Start with getting Boris into Red Ken's chair in May.
Posted by David Bene, Bretagne. on February 3, 2008 6:41 PM
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Just goes to show that the lunatics are running the asylum known as the UK, just more UK stupidity, nothing surprises me any more from this country.
Posted by Big Bossman on February 3, 2008 6:41 PM
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Absolutely not, the law in this country says one wife, and one wife only, and that is what we should work to. If people don't want to obey it, don't come and live in this country, simple as that.

Another case of being ruled by the fear of Islam, just as was stated in Holland recently.
Posted by Ian K Pestell on February 3, 2008 6:38 PM
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If this is correct it would appear it could have an effect on racial intolerance.
Posted by Mr M R Knight on February 3, 2008 5:40 PM
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No way should any man get extra benefits if he has more than one wife. If he chooses to bring several wives into the UK it is up to him to support them himself. It is against the law in this country to marry more than one woman, so the benefit system should be in line with the law.
Posted by Mrs. Bruce on February 3, 2008 5:24 PM
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islam is not the meaning of joke the reason of begamy in islam to stop valgaurity , shelter the women who is widow,old, alone , and ithink in uk culture there are so many womens who live alone and they have use on the name of women freedom so plz giving comments about bigamy try to find the reason don't comments like a iletrate person
Posted by anika on February 3, 2008 5:24 PM
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over my dead body will they take my hard earned money!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by tom atkins on February 3, 2008 5:24 PM
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Vote BNP is our only hope
Posted by john on February 3, 2008 4:45 PM
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If a genuine immigrant want to bring his wives here that is fair enough. But polygamy is illegal in this country therefor we should only pay benefit for 1 wife. Am I being cynical or is this an attempt by this discreditted government to suck to Muslims to capture their votes!
Posted by Malcolm Wells on February 3, 2008 4:45 PM
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Let us found a religion that allows everyone to have a Porsche and five houses and and...
And then ask the state to pay for our religious needs...
Posted by Elisa on February 3, 2008 4:44 PM
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Only this week, it was reported that people on
invalidity benefits were costing the government
billions, and an (ex-)investment banker had been
called in to advise on how significant savings
could be made.

Now the government announces this twaddle!
And how much is this going to cost the
taxpayer?

It appears the Gordon Brown hasn't learnt one
basic lesson about government: Governments
don't have ANY money; they have only the
taxpayers'.

This is a Christian country - only just, perhaps,
but still, nevertheless. Polygamy is outlawed; and
so it should be. It is an unseemly practice.

Encouraging polygamy in this way is accelerating
the Islamization of our country. Moreover, why
should one group of people be entitled to more
state benefits than another one? Is this what they
call British fairplay?
Posted by Mark Alexander on February 3, 2008 4:43 PM
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Well now, just goes to show us that idiocy is rampant in the UK just as it is in the US.
Posted by Nancy on February 3, 2008 4:43 PM
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Gordon Brown penalises marriage, provided it is
monogamous of course, but will now reward
polygamy out of my tax bill. How inconsistent can
that ridiculous man get?
Posted by John Sanderson on February 3, 2008 4:42 PM
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Definitely not! It is illegal to have more than one wife in the UK. On the two occasions that I lived in a Muslim country, I abided by their rules. It is time that people who wish to live in the UK abided by ours.
Posted by Lynda Fisher on February 3, 2008 4:41 PM
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Dear british commentators,

I do understand your concerns and your anger fully.
I am from Germany, and I am here to let you all know that all this insane nonsense politics is happening in Germany as well!
Posted by pingpong on February 3, 2008 4:40 PM
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More socialist PC madness.
Posted by Philip Hutchinson on February 3, 2008 4:39 PM
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It is time that we repatriated those who do not accept our way of life. The accident of the location of ones place of birth should not entitle a child to citizenship.
It will soon be time for an English revolution and the abolition of parliament with the trial and execution of our present leaders
Posted by Mike on February 3, 2008 4:38 PM
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Can someone forward this to every MP and ask for their opinion on this.

I'll be voting BNP in the next election
Posted by Phil Cartwright on February 3, 2008 4:37 PM
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So we're going to pay them for breaking the law now?


Posted by David Walker on February 3, 2008 4:36 PM
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This is so stupid only neo labour could have thought it up

It makes you wonder if a deal has been done over something and this is a payment

Posted by donald on February 3, 2008 4:35 PM
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once again we bow to islam
get off your knees Britain.
Posted by pat on February 3, 2008 4:34 PM
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This is another outrageous plan to pander to the Muslims. It is tatamount to sanctioning plural marriage for one religious sect in this country. If you are going to move to this country, you should be willing to obey the law of the land and not expect special treatment. It also encourages the demeaning of women by having extra benefits sent to the husbands bank account. Is this not setting up great opportunity for benefit fraud?It is also a step closer to making the repressive Sharia law part of the judicial system of this country. Where does the government store its brain?
Posted by C. McGlashan on February 3, 2008 4:33 PM
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I deeply resent my money going to support multiple wives. Those that have them should support them themselves.
Does this also mean that they could
make use of x times the capital gains
allowance etc.?
Posted by F. R. Parish on February 3, 2008 4:32 PM
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It is all about votes!
Buying votes for Jack Straw et al with your money!

Can't see the wood for the trees?


Posted by stephen on February 3, 2008 4:27 PM
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We, the democratic majority, must OVERTHROW this evil Westminster dictatorship NOW by whatever means work quickest.

Action this day and every day until the democratic majority rules Britain - that's democracy, stupid!
Posted by Terry on February 3, 2008 4:26 PM
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If Gordon was smart he would realise that this is a PR disaster for his government which puts the nail in his political coffin.
Posted by Simon Golledge on February 3, 2008 4:23 PM
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People might be speechless but they are not voteless so for all our sakes let us get rid of this lot CLOWNS who have used political correctness to gradually undermine the people and are reducing our country into the laughing stock of Europe
Posted by Alan on February 3, 2008 4:22 PM
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The same PC madness as in Germany! Europe gone insane.

Posted by Christina Bloch on February 3, 2008 4:21 PM
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This government won’t be satisfied until it has destroyed everything this country has ever stood for!
Posted by David Clarke on February 3, 2008 4:21 PM
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Finally the UK has reached the point where Monty Python's Monster Raving Loony Party is starting to look like a viable political alternative for the British voter.
Posted by Michael in Vancouver on February 3, 2008 4:21 PM
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VOTE BNP.
Our last hope to stop this country becoming an Islamic state.
Posted by Paul Atherton on February 3, 2008 4:19 PM
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Our England will soon be no more, all our lovely traditions are being taken from us.
Benefits are being handed out to so many, and, now a man with multiple wifes, what next.
The way this country is going, I am sad and angry.Let us have our England, as we knew it back.
Posted by JAN on February 3, 2008 4:14 PM
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pls STOP this insanity
Posted by WHY on February 3, 2008 4:06 PM
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When we moved to The Netherlands in 1970 we had 3- children ( 6yrs,5yrs and 4yrs) we didn't expect to continue out Child allowance Holland, ergo no disappointment. Now however ( kids long gone, education paid by me) I read that Polish parents living and working ( they don't scrounge) in the UK qualify for child allowance ( benefit they call it now)for children they have in Poland.As my French colleagues would say " Something il est wrong mon ami" Jake.
Posted by j.w.rowley on February 3, 2008 4:06 PM
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The legslation being used is from 1987, why didnt the Tories stamp it out when they had the chance?
Posted by Colin on February 3, 2008 3:57 PM
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Complete lunacy which will fuel resentment and do nothing for racial harmony.
I am feel nothing but disgust.
Posted by Pete on February 3, 2008 3:56 PM
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How I wish the Queen would excercise her last remaining authority as head of the armed forces and dissolve parliament by force.
Posted by Stephen on February 3, 2008 3:55 PM
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I am FLABBERGHASTED! Those in power who advocate this, are either mad, wish this country ill, Muslims, or Islamic sympathizers.
I am now totally convinced that the only way to save this country's culture and give it back to us Britons, is a military coup.
What a shame.
Posted by Dave G-smith on February 3, 2008 3:55 PM
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I have given my vote to the Labour Party for a very long time, Please note I said the Labour Party. New labour is not the party I thought it could be. After reading this latest piece of political chicanery I will have no need to ask who would it be best to vote for. I shall not vote for the policies of makeing illegal positions a positive benefit to immigrants, this is a form of the madness of appeasement.
Posted by Dauddeg, CARDIFF on February 3, 2008 3:53 PM
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Why can't people who come to this country be expected to live by our laws? if they don't like it, they can return to their own country.
Posted by Libby on February 3, 2008 3:52 PM
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insanity!! complete insanity.
if you want more than one wife,
stay the heck home were its legal.
presumably you left because you
didnt like it there, now you try to change it and make it like home.
INSANITY!!!!!!!
even worse they are letting you?
Posted by mike mooney on February 3, 2008 3:52 PM
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"Islamic law permits men to have up to four wives at any one time - known as a harem - provided the husband spends equal amounts of time and money on each of them."

If an Islamic man is claiming benefits, he clearly cannot support more than one wife, so why should the British government?


Posted by Libby on February 3, 2008 3:50 PM
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Bigamy is a crime in the UK. There should be no exceptions, irrespective of where the marriage(s) took place.

To then allow those involved to profit from breaking our laws by granting them State benefits is outrageous. No wonder some Muslims think that they are untouchable in this country!
Posted by ThankYou&Goodnight on February 3, 2008 3:41 PM
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Well done, UK!
This is Thomas from Germany.
It seems that you are a little ahead of us, but we here will soon join you.
What comes next?
Cut off hands and heads and other body parts as a punishment for a crime against muslims? If you follow their laws, do it completeley.
Posted by Thomas Peter on February 3, 2008 3:40 PM
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Bigamy is a crime in the UK. There should be no exceptions, irrespective of where the marriage(s) took place.

To then allow those involved to profit from breaking our laws by granting them State benefits is outrageous. No wonder some Muslims think that they are untouchable in this country!
Posted by ThankYou&Goodnight on February 3, 2008 3:35 PM
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So, does this mean that a woman can also have multiple spouses? .... if not, surely that sparks another debate?
Posted by MM on February 3, 2008 3:33 PM
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Welcome to Britanistan?
Posted by Brother Brain on February 3, 2008 3:33 PM
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with 80%of somalies and 50%pakistani,s unemployed, and an overall figure of close to 45%unemployment in the muslim community, who the hell is paying for all this?
Posted by james mckee on February 3, 2008 3:18 PM
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During the Mitterand years the French social security system was having to pay out considerable sums to people who had arrived in France with several wives and dependents.

La loi Pasqua of 1993 put a stop to benefits being paid to more than one spouse or the children of spouses other than the one accepted by the French state.

I wonder, but doubt, if the Brown government is aware of this?




Posted by Richard Tracey on February 3, 2008 3:17 PM
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Poor rosbeef, you're deepest in the dark than us lol
Posted by Eric on February 3, 2008 3:17 PM
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Enough -I am no longer proud of my country. We seem to bend over backwards to such a degree to accommodate everyone that we no longer see where we are going. I am encouraging my children to move abroad,sadly another country will benefit from their degrees and skills. Shame on you 'our government'
Posted by Andrea on February 3, 2008 3:16 PM
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I along with countless others will now be voting for the BNP. I have 2 young kids, what will this country be like for them by the time they grow up?
Brown makes me sick, roll on the next election I believe all the major parties are in for a shock.
Posted by Mr Collier on February 3, 2008 3:16 PM
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On the front of the Sunday Telegraph the same page as this quite staggering item, it asks 'What must the Tories do to win your vote.Surely the repeal of this rediculous piece of legislation would be a start.As a 76 year old tax payer born pre 1935 I still get a so called married couples allowance though due to my income being over a certain amount even that is subject to a deduction of £1 for every £2 over £20,100 earned.The sooner we get rid of this Loony Left the better. I hope Cameron and Co read these comments and get a feel of the way sane people in this country are thinking.
Posted by Graham on February 3, 2008 3:15 PM
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How can a person living in England have more than one wife. I was always lead to belive that you could only have one spouse as otherwise it would be illegal, and is called BIGAMY.
We are still goverened by ENGLISH law or have we taken on the rules of some where else??

If they want more than one wife then they MUST GO to a country that allows that situation.
AND they are welcome to two mothers-in-law as well.

Posted by Yorkie Malone on February 3, 2008 3:15 PM
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No.

Under English Law Bigamy is a criminal act.
Posted by G Howard on February 3, 2008 3:14 PM
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The Koran states that the husband should support his multiple wives, homes and kids. Not the UK taxpayer.
Posted by Jon Watson on February 3, 2008 3:12 PM
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polygamy!polygamy!Give me your money for my polygamy.
Posted by Mike on February 3, 2008 3:12 PM
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Staggeringly unbelievble. Too, too, everything to comment further.
Posted by Jane on February 3, 2008 3:10 PM
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Bigamy is illegal in the west and UK and therefore the state is aiding and adbetting the committing of a crime. The culture and laws of the UK must be upheld and if certain sections of our society demand poligamy they must emigrate to a country that agrees with it. Sheria law must not be allowed under any circumstances in this country.
Posted by Bennett on February 3, 2008 3:09 PM
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outrages! But hang on a minute. does that mean I can now go to the Bahamas and take a second husband without getting into trouble? Roll on that toyboy...
Posted by Manuela on February 3, 2008 3:09 PM
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Come on, one political party with the guts to call Labour to account for what they've done to our country! And I don't care which it is - it will have my vote!
Posted by Trishy on February 3, 2008 3:07 PM
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May we have from our Church of England an unequivocal statement either of acceptance or objection to this extraordinary ruling. There can be no compromise this time. A response and guidance would also be welcome from the Roman Catholic leaders in this country. Clear confirmation of the official line of the Liberal Democrat Party is also expected please; it need only be brief. Regards, Curious.
Posted by Peter Maddock on February 3, 2008 3:00 PM
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All postings have missed another news item in this section. Muslim female doctors refuse to wash their hands above the wrist as everything else but wrists must be covered.

Will we have the right to demand someone who can and will wash properly. I suspect not because because such a demand will hurt their feelings.

The PC government and the PC lobby may not wish to recognise the UK as a christian country but I do not any such preposterous sugestions and demands from any other religion.
Posted by Oak on February 3, 2008 3:00 PM
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I cannot believe my eyes, is this government so stupid that they are unable to comprehend the damage they are doing to this Country? It begars belief, and they and their mambypamby attitudes should be got rid of as soon as possible. God help this Country.
Posted by Kenneth Anstiss on February 3, 2008 2:59 PM
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I am fed up of this discrimination in favour of muslims at every turn. The government is not only trying to keep this quiet but it is allowing the establishment of a two tier system of benefits in which muslims are favoured on religious grounds because they have brought a set of standards and religious tenets they demand be applied to them at the expense of everyone else. Muslims are not superior to others, muslims should abide by the same laws, conditions and freedoms everyone gets, no more and no less.
Posted by Michael Owen on February 3, 2008 2:58 PM
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is is any wonder so many good English
men have left and are still leaving there home land.
Too bad the government doesnt give
more thought to expat pensioners
frozen pensions as it does to
immigrants



Posted by mike Barrett on February 3, 2008 2:56 PM
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Maybe better to move to Pakistan where they are trying to modernise, not like the UK seemingly moving back into the dark ages to support multiculturalism.
Posted by Larry Seabrook on February 3, 2008 2:56 PM
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I'm an American fan of English things. English china, H & H rifles, four Jaguars cars and several Classic Bikes.
Can someone please tell me, what happened to the country that produced all these things?
Posted by Eric Davis on February 3, 2008 2:56 PM
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I really hate to see this happening to Britain. A rather large step toward Shari'a. What can Brown et al. be thinking?
Posted by Tomas Runmhar on February 3, 2008 2:54 PM
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Bigamy in Britain is illegal. It seems to be a burgeoning pattern of government to allow some minority groups to live outside the law because it is less trouble than compelling them to conform. So why not go the whole hog and change the law? No names no pack drill but I know a few people who could have benefitted from such a change; not least some of our politicians.


Posted by C A Robertson on February 3, 2008 2:48 PM
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I do not think British taxpayers should pay for all these benefits that are being handed out right left and centre to all these immigrants being allowed into our country, in particular to Muslim men with more than one wife!! Britian is just becoming a laughting stock. Would we be allowed to behave the same way in their countries? No way.
Posted by A Henderson on February 3, 2008 2:46 PM
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NO
Posted by Allan Sinclair on February 3, 2008 2:46 PM
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The only way to change this governments thinking and decisions, is TAKE TO THE STREETS, other methods have proved futile.
Posted by simmel on February 3, 2008 2:46 PM
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Either it must be April 1st or we have a Labour government in power.
Posted by ian on February 3, 2008 2:37 PM
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Could we spend some money on ourselves, please. The long suffering British public, especially those of us unlucky enough to be English in England. Use the money to help white working class boys, who are lagging behind all other groups in school. We're getting Sharia law by the back door already with victim impact statements read out in court. It has never mattered to British law if the victim is an odious creep or Mother Theresa herself and it never should. A crime is a crime either way. If we are going to allow welfare benefits for bigamists make bigamy legal in this country too. At least most Englishmen treat their wives with some respect!
Posted by Liz on February 3, 2008 2:33 PM
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Does this mean that if i want to, i can go overseas, marry a few times, bring them all back to good ol blighty and claim lots of benefits. Thought not, I'm English.
Posted by david on February 3, 2008 2:33 PM
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Islamic Law allows a man to have more than one wife only if he can support her ......... I'm left totally speechless by the British 'PC brigade' that goes against both our laws and theirs to keep scroungers happy by further squandering our money. Totally ridiculous! Its about time that British law-abiding citizens (no matter what colour or religion) took action against this sort of thing happening!
Posted by Emma Fennelly on February 3, 2008 2:33 PM
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this beggars belief this is still Britain is it? How
racist can you get? Let's cripple the normal
families and give all their money to the minorities
let's get the world knowing what a cowardly pack
of idiots we have governing us. Political
correctness end it now!

Posted by chris davis on February 3, 2008 2:33 PM
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Jan asks: This is ridiculous, where will it all end?

Bit by bit the British way of life will disappear...more and more concessions to immigrants ways of life....then in about 25 years time.....when British people really start to get fed up and facing the reality of the situation....civil war?


Posted by Rob on February 3, 2008 2:29 PM
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I presume its ok for me to bring back huge amounts of cocaine from a foriegn country were its not illegal or maybe hard core porn from denmark as its legal there. As for the next election cameroon is more of a snivelling pc loving at his own culture fool than Blair!
Posted by brian jones on February 3, 2008 2:29 PM
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I really don't believe this! Has Britain (as in New Labour) gone stark raving mad?
Brits, it is about time to stand up for your rights, to hell with PC. It is still (just about) your country, get out there and fight for it!
Posted by chrissie on February 3, 2008 2:28 PM
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UKIP is the only non-racist political party that consistently opposes such lunatic policies. PLEASE go to www.UKIP.org, read about our policies and beliefs and join the growing numbers who want to reclaim our country from the madmen currently in charge, who are making these insane decisions.
Posted by Peter Harper on February 3, 2008 2:28 PM
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Re "Extra Wives" - I am appalled at this report - people who come and live in this country should accept English law - I cannot understand who has agreed to benefits for extra wives when bigamy is a crime here. I am also disturbed at the ways this is got round. I do hope this is given more publicity - I cannot see it reported in other papers - after all it is our money which is being used and to us the practice is morally wrong.
Posted by E M Bebb on February 3, 2008 2:27 PM
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Ah what the heck, it's only taxpayers' money.
Posted by Your ruler Gordon Brown on February 3, 2008 2:26 PM
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Let's think about this. My wife is getting a bit lame and I am getting a bit decrepit. We could do with a bit of help in the house. I could spend our savings on a trip abroad to buy a young wife, and having spent the money become eligible for benefits. . . . do I have to convert to Islam or can anyone have a go?
Posted by Marker on February 3, 2008 2:25 PM
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Seems to be alot of anger on here... and quite right! But what happens when it comes to election day?

The same old people vote for the same old Party..... Unless the British stand up for their heritage now, we will be the minority in the UK in half a century's time.... Does anyone expect that as a minority group the British would get any of the perks that the current Brit state offers the current minority groups?

Jonah626
Posted by Robin on February 3, 2008 2:25 PM
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Am a British Muslim myself and am just astonished! What the hell is going on here, why? We already are on the limelight every week, and now this will justify other people to go out there and vote for the BNP!
Posted by Faz on February 3, 2008 2:22 PM
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Dear England,
If we in America happen to find your testicles, we will be sure to forward them to you. You have obviously misplaced them.
Of course, lately ours have been wandering off as well. So we don't really have time to actively hunt for yours. But should we come across them we'll let you know.
Posted by John Chavous on February 3, 2008 2:20 PM
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Polygamous families are NOT better off under the Income Support/JSA(IB) benefit rules.

If the additional wife has children she would be is paid as an extra single person not as lone parent where she would receive more.

Attack polygamy as male domination but get the facts straight.
Posted by Leo on February 3, 2008 2:20 PM
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I am trying to think of any section of society that does not feel abandoned by this Government-the military (wars and a lack of suitable kit),the police, schools (teachers and kids),motorists (parking, cameras,taxes etc), the NHS (staff and patients),council tax payers, pensioners,the unemployed,and your Mr.Average law abiding citizen surrounded by lawlessness and yet we,the idiot voters seem to have an insatiable appetite for more of the same! Why are we so indifferent. The clock cannot be turned back.
Posted by jeff on February 3, 2008 2:19 PM
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where is HM Oposition???
another bunch of 'P.C. correct toothless paper tigers....
Why ? How? did this lunacy creep through-
three out of four of my family cannot get proper treatment unde the NHS due to lack of funding!!
Posted by Mike on February 3, 2008 2:16 PM
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How DARE they throw around OUR money like this without permission!

Who decided this OUTRAGE. I want names!
Posted by Roger Thornhill on February 3, 2008 2:14 PM
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This is ridiculous, where will it all end?
Posted by Jan on February 3, 2008 2:14 PM
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There will be a huge backlash from the pensioners who have paid for their pensions all their working lives, moved abroad to enjoy their retirement, and now find that in certain countries, mainly in the Commonwealth, that their pensions have been frozen at the amount of the first payment. This means that there are many older pensioners living on a pittance because they are denied money that is rightfully theirs.
Posted by Yvonne on February 3, 2008 2:13 PM
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Once again the Islamic tail in this country is wagging the indiginous dog. For most British citizens bigamy is an imprisonable offence, but if you are Muslim it is a way of getting extra benefits. I am not a racist, but like very many people living in this country I believe that if you choose to live here you should abide by British laws and customs irrespective of your race or religion. If you want to live in a country governed by other laws then you should move there.
Posted by D Swanbrow on February 3, 2008 2:13 PM
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More evidence, if any were needed, that this government is rushing, lemming like, towards the cliffs of electoral suicide.
Just be patient - it will all be over soon.
Posted by Nigel Billington on February 3, 2008 2:12 PM
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I think that this ruleing is a threat to the British way of life.
One day these benefits will be taken away and the ministers who voted for it will be brought to account.
Posted by Leonard Rich on February 3, 2008 2:11 PM
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I don't believe it.... once again we are the laughing stock of of 'normal' society around the world...
god help us
And In Oxford they want the call too praqyer to rung out 3 times a day....No connection what soever
Posted by mike on February 3, 2008 2:09 PM
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Has someone got the dates wrong.?
Surely it is not April 1st yet.!!!
If Gordon Brown really wants to promote Britishness he needs to develop a set of basic Rules so that immigrants and others know what they are,rather than trying on something like this.
Posted by John on February 3, 2008 2:08 PM
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(quote) "..... Ministers estimate that up to a thousand polygamous partnerships exist in Britain, although they admit there is no exact record ....." (unquote).

..... and these figures come from the same ministers who predicted in 2003 that immigration from Eastern Europe would never exceed 15000 people.

They are statistical nincompoops - not to mention totally spineless humanbeings.

Posted by Peter Athey on February 3, 2008 2:08 PM
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Has someone got the dates wrong.?
Surely it is not April 1st yet.!!!
If Gordon Brown really wants to promote Britishness he needs to develop a set of basic Rules so that immigrants and others know what they are,rather than trying on something like this.
Posted by John on February 3, 2008 2:07 PM
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There is no way that Britain should should support bigamy.Yet another stout nail in Labours coffin. I can't wait to see the the back of them!
Posted by Derek Fenney on February 3, 2008 2:07 PM
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More labour lunacy - and expect more to come. Who voted these incompetents into power?
Posted by Bob on February 3, 2008 2:01 PM
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This means that ANY man, not just Muslims, could have multiple marriages in an Islamic country and come back here to claim for all his wives!

Why are OUR laws being changed just to suit Muslims?

Will this country adopt shariah law next?
Posted by N. Simon on February 3, 2008 2:01 PM
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VOTE THIS SHAMBOLIC GOVERNMENT OUT AT THE NEXT ELECTION PLEASE!!! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!
Posted by Disgruntled on February 3, 2008 1:59 PM
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NO!
Posted by Robert Boyd on February 3, 2008 1:54 PM
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My wife is not white and I have always said that I would never vote BNP but I am beginning to think about this !!!!
Posted by David on February 3, 2008 1:51 PM
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Words fail me.

This country is a Christian country, and as such more than 1 wife is bigamous. If you want to be Muslim with more than 1 then stay in a country where it is legal to do so.

We should not be paying for this. Please someone get rid of this totally corrupt government and send most of them back to Scotland where they belong.
Posted by Bee on February 3, 2008 1:51 PM
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Having had a look at BBC news, no surprise to see there's no mention of this on their website.
Posted by David on February 3, 2008 1:50 PM
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Under paragraph 7(7) of Schedule 3 of the Income Support (General) Regulations 1987, the DWP paid all of the mortgage interest for Claimants whose name was not on the mortgage, but only if their partner deserted them and left them to pay the bills. Rather than be evicted for mortgage arrears, many couples simply separated.

Paragraph 1(a) of the same Regulations states a Claimant whose name is on the mortgage should have their mortgage interest paid too. That of course, applied to married couples who stayed together, but the DWP did not pay up, so many families were turfed out of their homes unnecessarily.

In this way, the DWP has been applying the rules in place since 1987 in a way that directly discriminates against monogamous couples who are faithful to one another, and indirectly discriminates against Christian and Muslim families who stay together because of their faith.

Are they going to continue to behave in this way during the coming credit crunch?
Posted by solarsentinel on February 3, 2008 1:50 PM
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This country has gone truly mad. I am sitting her struggling to get assistance with my 95 year old blind mother, having done the same with my 88 yr father who died. In the same week they threaten to throw sick people off IB, they propose this. I am selling my house and emigrating, with my 95 yr old Mother. I am astonished!!
Posted by MIkey on February 3, 2008 1:50 PM
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The next step will be the granting of spouse visas to all those additional wives as a matter of course. All I can say is, "Roll on election time."
Posted by David Daw on February 3, 2008 1:50 PM
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This is self destroying madness to the second power.
Posted by Regus Patoff on February 3, 2008 1:49 PM
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Just another explanation of why so many British people are leaving the country to live abroad
Posted by David Smith on February 3, 2008 1:48 PM
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In the USA we'd call this MoonBattery. I've been in your great (formally) country almost 4yrs now and if there's one thing I've discovered it's that Brits (far too many) are in a rush to give away their country. They can't seem to be shot of it fast enuff. Heck, why do it piecemeal?
Why not simply auction it off on Ebay and be done with it.
Anyway .. why complain. The taxpayer has loads of extra cash to throw away. And the taxpayer is always ripe.
God Bless England. Cause nobody else seems to want to.
Posted by jayd peiper on February 3, 2008 1:46 PM
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a simple 2 letter answer to this one; No. In this country, having more than 1 spouse is illegal and naturally, as a result, claiming any extra benefits as a result of this an illegal marriage, should, well, be, illegal. If this headline had been on April 1st, i would simply have thought of it as another April Fool's joke. Yet another example, where this present governement is seemingly looking at ways that they can waste tax payers money to patronise a culture that is not ours and one which i hope and suspect, we don't want either.
Posted by andrew dyson on February 3, 2008 1:46 PM
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Beheading criminals is legal under Islamic law in some states, but not in Britain. Polygamy is legal under Islamic law in some states, but not in Britain.
Somewhere, someone is confused about whose laws the UK operates under. If polygamy is legal for one; it must be legal for all. Sort me out a couple of good-lookers, guys - I'm partial to green-eyed redheads - as I'm on my way home to get in on this paid polygamy deal! A fantasy finally delivers!!!

Posted by Michael, scenting Paradise on February 3, 2008 1:46 PM
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As it is illegal to be married to more than one person then benifit should only apply to one spouse. If someone wants to have more than one wife,they should go to a country that allows it, not try to change our Christian society.
Posted by Alan Lawrence on February 3, 2008 1:45 PM
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This is completey crazy. It's against the law of the land and now they will get extra benefits for breaking the law? This will only mean that more people will go against the rules in order to cash in!
Posted by Wilma Prince on February 3, 2008 1:45 PM
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Last August the Telegraph reported that cutbacks in NHS chiropody for the elderly had meant a severe increase in mobility problems for them; this age group also often go hungry in hospital because there is nobody with the time to sit patiently and feed them etc.

I can see the Government making further cuts in this direction in order to fund the polgamy benefits. After all the money has to come from somewhere, doesn't it?

Posted by Sal on February 3, 2008 1:43 PM
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APRIL FOOL!!!!!.... I only wish....
Posted by John. A on February 3, 2008 1:43 PM
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Having spent the last 18 years caring for our son, both of our parents and for the last 4 years been paid the princly sum of £48.60 Carers allowance (once I realised I could make a claim) for well over 70 hours of caring. I wonder what is the matter with this country where we ignore and penalise our own elderly and vunerable in favour of all the mostly fit and healthy immigrants and their overseas families. I have never been racist in my life but I now strongly feel we have to start putting our own people first.
Posted by Michelle on February 3, 2008 1:43 PM
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It is crazy rulings like this that are bankrupting our benefits system.Eg, our local council (Fife) has just stopped the free home shopping service for the elderly, and are now charging our housebound pensioners £7 a time to do their shopping for them.
Time to waken up I say

Posted by Victor Meldrew on February 3, 2008 1:42 PM
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How can there be a "valid polygamous" marriage if polygamy is a crime in E