Written question asked by Lord Carlile of Berriew (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Bach (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 November 2008.

Court Fees

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether, following the death of Baby P, they will review the level of court fees required of local authorities to take cases before the family proceedings court and the Family Division of the High Court, so as to remove any discouragement created by the fees from presenting cases of potentially endangered children for decision by judges.

Answer: Children's services have a statutory obligation to protect the interests of children and it would be unlawful for them to avoid taking court proceedings for financial reasons. There is no evidence to suggest that local authorities would act inappropriately due to financial pressures. However, Lord Laming's review will be examining this issue in particular. Forty million pounds per annum was transferred to local authorities to cover the costs of the increased court fees. This is expected to exceed the total court fees payable as a result of the increases.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 705 c298WA; 6474
Session: 2007-08
Subjects: Children Care proceedings Fees and charges Local government Protection
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk