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Proceeding contribution from Lord Northbourne (Crossbench) in the House of Lords on Wednesday, 27 January 2010. It occurred during Debate on bill and Committee proceeding on Child Poverty Bill.


Child Poverty Bill

That is where we differ. I shall see what I think as we proceed. The Minister made an interesting and important point on the question of the responsibilities of parents. He said that the Government expect all parents to do this and that—I was unable to get it down. Where is it written in simple form where parents can see it, understand it, ask questions and get advice? That is what I like about the Scottish legislation, which is clear and can be quoted. I have taken a lot of trouble with the Children Act, as the Minister can imagine, as I have been working on this for more than two years. The Minister quoted several sentences but, when we get down to it, it depends on case law. I tabled a Question about a year ago to the relevant Minister when I asked whether the Government could give me the necessary references to the case law. The Answer was that it was far too complicated and it would be far too expensive. If that is the case, it would be unfair to argue that the position is entirely clear for the ordinary parent to understand. I want something that they can understand. On that basis, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 35 withdrawn. Amendment 36 Moved by


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
716 c384GC 
Session
2009-10
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords Grand Committee
Subjects
Children Disadvantaged Carers Costs Finance Families Foster care Education Grandparents Free school meals Local government Low incomes Parents Poverty Nutrition Primary education Mental health Social security benefits Welfare tax credits Secondary education
Legislation
Child Poverty Bill 2008-09 to 2009-10
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk