Proposed law does not protect children born to convicted paedophiles, Lords to hear

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Haroon Siddique Legal affairs correspondentMarch 9, 2026 at 11:15 AM
Proposed law does not protect children born to convicted paedophiles, Lords to hear

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A proposed law in England and Wales aimed at restricting parental rights of convicted paedophiles is facing criticism for not protecting children born after their conviction. Under the current Victims and Courts Bill, parental responsibility is removed only for children born before the conviction. Crossbench peer Lord Meston has proposed an amendment to close this loophole, which will be debated in the House of Lords this week. The amendment aims to prevent a two-tiered system where children born after a parent's conviction remain vulnerable. The move comes after a case highlighted the financial and emotional burden placed on a mother to protect her child from a convicted paedophile ex-husband. While the government acknowledges potential risks, it argues against binding future children, suggesting family courts can address risks as they arise.

Keywords

paedophile parental rights 80% children's protection 70% parental responsibility 60% conviction loophole 50% victims and courts bill 40%

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