§ Ms Beverley HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what research she has evaluated on the relative financial positions of separated mothers and fathers. [48829]
§ Mr. Keith BradleyRecent research by Dr. Jarvis and Dr. Jenkins of the University of Essex quoted in "Real Choices—A Manifesto for Lone Parents and their Children" indicates that the median net income of mothers dropped on average by 15 per cent. in the year following separation—before allowing for any maintenance payments—while fathers' net income rose by an average of 15 per cent.