§ 24. Mr. Bill MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to ensure absent fathers pay proper maintenance for their children. [29099]
§ 31. Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to ensure absent fathers support their children. [29106]
§ Mr. Keith BradleyAll children are entitled to the financial and emotional support of both parents wherever they may live. The receipt of regular maintenance is a key part of the Government's strategy for helping lone mothers off Income Support and into work. We are therefore looking closely at all aspects of the child support scheme to see where improvements can be made and we expect to bring forward a consultation document on our proposals by the Summer. In the meantime we are directing a further £15 million to the Agency in each of the next two financial years specifically aimed at increasing the amounts of maintenance that are paid.