CHILD SUPPORT LEGISLATION

Early day motion 1388, tabled 24 May 2002 by Simon Thomas (Plaid Cymru). Signed by 18 members.

That this House notes that child support legislation allows a flat rate of ú5 to be payable in certain circumstances such as when the non-resident parent is in receipt of a prescribed benefit; notes with concern that if the care of a child is shared for at least one night a week, the amount of child support maintenance payable by the non-resident parent to the person with the care of that child is nil if the flat rate is payable; is concerned that this can cause the resident parent to lose out; and calls on the Government to look into this rule and ensure that the resident parents are not penalised for allowing fathers to have access to their children.

Signatures by party: Labour 11, Plaid Cymru 3, Scottish National Party 3, Liberal Democrat 1.