So the news that divorced fathers are to be denied a legal right to a relationship with their children, in the long overdue review of family law published this week, fills me with horror and despair.

In this quote, Louis de Bernières, a British author, expresses his deep concern and disappointment over the news that divorced fathers may be denied a legal right to maintain a relationship with their children. The quote is a reaction to a review of family law that was published, which apparently proposed changes that would negatively impact fathers' rights in family matters, particularly after divorce. De Bernières uses strong emotional language, describing his feelings of horror and despair at the implications of such legal changes.

The origin of this statement likely stems from debates around family law and the rights of parents post-divorce. In many countries, there has been a longstanding concern over the legal and emotional treatment of fathers in family court, especially regarding issues of custody and access to children. De Bernières, in this case, is clearly troubled by the idea that a legal right to a relationship could be removed, as it suggests an erosion of fathers' parental rights and their role in raising children after separation or divorce.

By expressing that the news "fills me with horror and despair," de Bernières emphasizes the gravity of the situation. His use of the term "long overdue review" also suggests that he believes the legal system has been too slow in addressing issues related to parental access and family law reform. However, his quote indicates that he feels the proposed changes are not the right solution and could cause harm to families, particularly children, who benefit from the involvement of both parents.

Ultimately, de Bernières’ quote reflects a strong emotional reaction to the proposed changes in family law, underlining his belief in the importance of maintaining legal rights for both parents, especially in the context of divorce. His statement advocates for the idea that children should have the right to a relationship with both parents, regardless of the marital status, and critiques the proposed legal reforms for undermining this principle.