Protection of Adults Convention to receive its first ratification
On Wednesday, 5 November 2003, the United Kingdom deposited its instrument of ratification, for Scotland, of the Hague Convention of 13 January 2000 on the International Protection of Adults. The official signing ceremony took place a day earlier, at the British Ambassador's residence at The Hague, and was followed by a reception.
The Convention, which had already been signed by the United Kingdom on 1 April 2003, provides for a system of co-operation between Contracting States concerning incapacitated persons. The increasing tendency for retired persons to move to other countries, leaving the bulk of their property behind, sometimes acquiring a home in the new country and making arrangements in advance for their care or representation in the event of incapacity, has made it essential to have clear rules specifying which national authorities are competent to take any necessary protective measures. The 2000 Hague Convention addresses this and other issues.