Written question asked by Vera Baird (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 January 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 22 January 2003. It was answered by Baroness Winterton of Doncaster (Labour) on Wednesday, 22 January 2003 on behalf of the Lord Chancellor's Department.

Lord Chancellors Dept

Question: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department, when the new draft court rules to support the Adoption and Children Bill will be made available for consultation. (Incorrectly printed in Daily Part as Ann Winterton answering question).

Answer: Vera Baird: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department, when the new draft court rules to support the Adoption and Children Bill will be made available for consultation. [91839] Rosie Winterton: The Adoption and Children Bill received Royal Assent on 7 November 2002. The Adoption and Children Act was published on 9 December 2002 with explanatory notes following in early January 2003. I, and Ministerial colleagues here and in Department of Health, are considering plans for implementation of the Act. Full implementation is anticipated by the end of 2004. However, some elements such as the definition of "harm" in relation to domestic violence are expected sooner. We expect to consult on an amendment to the Family Proceedings Rules 1991 (DomesticViolence) this spring.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 91839; 398 c376W;398 c375W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Children Courts Domestic abuse Protection Reform Rules of procedure
Legislation: Adoption and Children Act 2002
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk