§ Mr. HealeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to change the regulations covering the formulae used by the CSA to assess liability for payments; and if she will make a statement. [1652]
Mr. BradleyWe are aware of the concerns which have been expressed about the child support formula. We will be looking closely at this area over the coming months as part of our wider consideration of the Child Support Agency.
§ Mr. TimmsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what analysis she has made of the proportion of absent parents with a full maintenance assessment who are paying maintenance through the Child Support Agency.[4508]
Mr. BradleyRecent figures show that only some 32 per cent. of absent parents with a full maintenance assessment and making payment through the Child Support Agency are paying the full amount due.
Children are entitled to the support of both parents wherever they live. Absent parents need to fulfil their responsibilities. It is not acceptable that so many do not pay the maintenance they owe. Over the coming months we will be looking closely at all aspects of the operations of the Child Support Agency to ensure that it provides an efficient and effective service.