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Written question asked by Callum Anderson (Labour) on Thursday, 12 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 March 2026. It was answered by Andrew Western (Labour) on Thursday, 26 March 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Registry Trust: Liability Orders

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, who is responsible for registering liability orders with Registry Trust Limited.

Answer

The Child Maintenance Service (CMS) does not require a justice of the peace to issue a summons before making an application for a liability order.

When seeking a liability order, the CMS writes directly to the paying parent to inform them of the intention to apply. This communication includes the outstanding debt amount, along with the court location and the date of the hearing.

Use of such powers may have an impact on a parent’s future ability to pay. These powers are therefore only used in circumstances where the CMS believes the parent can pay but is refusing to do so. In such circumstances these powers will have a deterrent effect and as such the numbers are expected to be low.

The CMS is committed to using these powers fairly and in the best interests of children and separated families.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
120493
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Registration Registry Trust Liability orders
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk