Liberal Democrats launch children and families policy paper

12.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Sat 17th Jun 2006

Family pose

The Liberal Democrats have launched a new policy paper on Children and Families. The proposals in an booklet called"Stronger Families, Brighter Futures" will be debated at the Party's Autumn Conference in Brighton. Liberal Democrat children and families spokesperson, Annette Brooke MP said "Our proposals offer parents a real choice between returning to work or staying at home and emphasises the need for quality childcare to be accessible for all families." Party Leader Sir Menzies Campbell MP said "Liberal Democrats recognise that the family in all its forms is the foundation for the success and happiness of our children. Childcare, early years education and the benefits system can all help sustain stronger families and brighter futures for our children. Liberal Democrats will ensure quality services in the community that give real choice to parents.

Commenting on the Liberal Democrat proposals for post-separation parenting arrangements, Sir Menzies said "We must be realistic, some families break down. Subject to the best interests of the child, the objective should be to ensure that children have reasonable time with both parents. Just as a child should not grow up without the love and protection that can be offered by both parents, neither should parents miss out on the joys of bringing up their child."

Other proposals in the Paper include:

A minimum maternity guarantee of £170 per week for the first six months. Currently maternity pay is worth 90% of the mother's full salary for the first six weeks then a maximum £108.85 for the following 20 weeks

Proposals for divorce and separation meanwhile are based on the idea that "maintaining the best interest of the child is paramount but that the court should consider the desirability of a child maintaining contact with both parents". Compulsory mediation before child custody rows go to court.

Scrap the Child Support Agency and handing its duties to HM Customs and Revenue.