Written question asked by Lord Rooker (Labour Independent), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Bach (Labour) on Thursday, 12 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 other children in families with a child involved in care proceedings from media exposure.

Answer: The Government’s proposed measures to be included in the Children, Schools and Families Bill will strengthen the anonymity afforded to children and families involved in care proceedings by making it of indefinite duration and extending it to all persons involved in the proceedings. The Bill will also include provisions for the court to prohibit or restrict publication of information if it is likely to prejudice the welfare of a child or the safety of any person.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 6224; 714 c203-4WA
Session: 2008-09
Subjects: Children Disclosure of information Care proceedings Evidence Family proceedings Protection Media
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk