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Divorces total increases by 4.9% in England and Wales Divorces up by 4.9% in England and Wales
(40 minutes later)
The number of divorces in England and Wales increased by 4.9% last year, according to official figures.The number of divorces in England and Wales increased by 4.9% last year, according to official figures.
The Office for National Statistics said there were 119,589 divorces in 2010 compared to 113,949 in 2009.The Office for National Statistics said there were 119,589 divorces in 2010 compared to 113,949 in 2009.
It is the first annual increase in divorces since 2003 when there were 153,065 break-ups, a rise from 147,735 the previous year.It is the first annual increase in divorces since 2003 when there were 153,065 break-ups, a rise from 147,735 the previous year.
The number of divorces last year was highest among men and women aged 40 to 44, the ONS added.The number of divorces last year was highest among men and women aged 40 to 44, the ONS added.
The divorce rate increased from 10.5 divorcing people per thousand of the married population in 2009, to 11.1 per thousand in 2010.The divorce rate increased from 10.5 divorcing people per thousand of the married population in 2009, to 11.1 per thousand in 2010.
The ONS report said a third of marriages taking place in 1995 had ended in divorce. This compares to just over a fifth of marital unions in 1970 failing by their 15th anniversary. 'Delayed impact'
The ONS said the increase may be linked with the difficult economic climate, following the recession.
"The figures show that divorce rates continued their downward trend during 2008 and 2009 but increased in 2010," its report said.
"This could be consistent with the theory that recession is associated with an increased risk of divorce, but with a delayed impact, perhaps reflecting a couple's wait for an economic recovery to lift the value of their assets or the time lag between separation and obtaining a decree absolute.
"A similar trend can be seen during the previous recession in 1990-92, where divorce rates increased more markedly in 1993 than during the recession itself."
The ONS said a third of marriages taking place in 1995 had ended in divorce. This compares to just over a fifth of marital unions in 1970 failing by their 15th anniversary.