In an historic decision a judge of the High Court yesterday granted a joint residence order to a lesbian couple. This order, made under the 1989 Children Act, gave the partner of the boy's natural mother equal rights in making decisions about the child's welfare. Mr Justice Douglas-Brown, who made his decision in chambers (i.e. in a closed hearing), said that the welfare of the child was his paramount consideration. Paula Tyler, the mother's solicitor (attorney) said: "Although many lesbian couples might be in a relationship where one of them has a child they are looking after, part of the reason this application was made was to overcome the difficulties in all those cases where the partner does not have parental responsibility - like dealing with doctors, schools and other authorities". The decision, which is without precedent, was greeted variously with cheers and protest. Conservative politician, Sir Nicholas Fairbairn, said "We don't put children in the hands of the insane. Why should we put them in the hands of the perverted?". But Labour Member of Parliament Jeremy Corbyn said, "It's an intelligent decision and I'm sure the child will have loving parents that will bring it up properly. Since lesbian and gay couples are allowed to foster in a number of local authorities, it is only logical they should be allowed to adopt. In fact it would be unfair to prevent them". At last some common sense from the English judiciary. I will keppe you informed of developments. Matthew