HC Deb 07 July 1980 vol 988 c62W
Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what figures he has as to the number of children living with only one parent as a result of a broken marriage.

Mrs. Chalker

It is estimated that in 1978 there were about 1 million dependent children living with only one parent who was either divorced or living separately from his or her spouse.

Mr. Field

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will give his latest estimate for the total number of fathers who head one-parent families with children.

Mrs. Chalker

It is estimated that in 1978 there were about 100,000 fathers who headed one-parent families with dependent children.