Non-equal rights plan criticised

Plans to restrict the access fathers and grandparents are given to children following family break-ups have been firmly criticised. The Family Justice Review, completed by former civil servant David Norgrove, recommended that there should be no legal right to equal access and said pledges to make sure children have a “meaningful relationship” with both parents should be abandoned. But a think-tank created by Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith has warned that adopting these principles would undermine family values. The Government has also distanced itself from the proposals, saying that the report’s conclusions are not in line with policy and MPs are not duty-bound to implement the recommendations. Mr Norgrove points out that having greater, more equal rights merely leads to longer legal battles and delays for the children as it is decided where they will live. The review also points out that grandparents can create additional problems by interfering and making the custody battles more complicated. A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: “It’s an independent report. We will examine carefully the panel’s recommendations and come back with a response in due course.” Our Family and Matrimonial team helps families with residency issues across West London and Bucks. For advice, contact a member of the team, call us on 01494 790000 or email familylaw@ibblaw.co.uk.