Written question asked by Lord Rooker (Labour Independent), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Bach (Labour) on Wednesday, 11 November 2009.

Courts: Family Cases

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government how, in allowing the media access to the written evidence and substance of cases in the family courts, they have sought to protect the confidentiality of doctors and social workers in talking to children involved in care and related proceedings.

Answer: The media are only able to access written evidence in family proceedings following an application procedure and with the express consent of the court. Additionally, the courts have been given a discretionary power to exclude the media from proceedings where necessary. We would expect professionals to use their judgment about the most effective and appropriate way to inform children of sufficient age and understanding on the use to which the information will be put and who is likely to come into contact with this information.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 6223; 714 c162WA
Session: 2008-09
Subjects: Children Disclosure of information Care proceedings Doctors Family proceedings Privacy Media Social workers
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk