A CHANGE to the law is about to be enacted, giving lesbian partners the same rights as married couples. A similar law is already in existence for homosexual partners.

While I am strongly in favour for equal rights for everybody regarding dissolution of a partnership, be it by separation or death, how about the rights of a mixed sex couple (man and woman) living together without the doubtful blessing of matrimony?

I come from a country, a member of the Commonwealth and English speaking, where, after 2.5 years of living together, a mixed sex couple have the same rights and obligations as married partners. I had no suspicion that such glaring differences exist between the UK and other members of the Commonwealth.

I met a very suitable partner of 76 years; I was four years his junior. We decided to live together, which we have done in harmony, respect and comfort, for six years. As there is not much likelihood of an offspring, we did not get married. Two years ago he was diagnosed with cancer, and one year ago he had a mild heart attack. He died just before Christmas of a massive heart attack.

As his health deteriorated, he often talked about changing his Will, and that I would not have to worry about finances ever again. I had not urged him to do this, as I consider it the height of mental cruelty to remind a very sick person of his impending death.

His heirs disputed any right I may have had to an inheritance and, as they even disputed the fact that I cared for my partner during his last years, I consulted a lawyer.

It appeared that, because he sponsored my request for British residency, I have dependent's rights. Had I been a UK citizen, I would have no rights whatsoever.

I find it highly discriminatory to have such a legal loophole. It reeks of a strong bias against women, and demonstrates an outmoded attitude towards mixed sex couples living together.

I think mixed sex couples should form a pressure group and demonstrate, let's say in Windsor, during the marriage ceremony of Prince Charles.

After all, he is letting the side down and tying the knot after several decades!

(Name and address supplied)