What is the ratio in Combe v Combe?

Promissory estoppel can only be used as a defence, not as a cause of action to found a claim.

What did the court decide in Combe v Combe?

The wife could not use promissory estoppel to claim the promised payments from her husband.

It establishes the crucial 'sword and shield' distinction limiting when promissory estoppel can be invoked.

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