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Written question asked by Lord Lester of Herne Hill (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Labour) on Wednesday, 14 May 2008.


Courts: Fees

Question
asked Her Majesty's Government:What impact the increases in court fees in the Family Proceedings Order (SI 2008/1054) will have on access to courts for care proceedings involving attempts to force children to marry against their will.
Answer

The increases only affect fees paid for by local authorities, not individuals, and each local authority has been given additional money to pay for the increases. Children's services have a statutory obligation to protect the interests of children; it would be unlawful for them to avoid taking care proceedings for financial reasons. Proceedings under the Forced Marriages Act are not affected by these fee increases.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
3366; 701 c135WA
Session
2007-08
Subjects
Children Care proceedings Fees and charges Increases Forced marriage Protection
Link
View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk