Westminster Hall debateWestminster HallThursday, 21 May 202615:00

Domestic abuse and safeguarding within the family justice system

Backbench debate (separate chamber, no votes)

This Westminster Hall debate examines how the family justice system handles domestic abuse cases and protects vulnerable people within family proceedings. Clive Jones (Liberal Democrat) is raising concerns about safeguarding gaps in how courts deal with abuse allegations during family law disputes, particularly around child custody and contact arrangements.

Domestic abuse affects hundreds of thousands of families each year in the UK. The debate addresses a critical gap: how family courts balance access to children with survivor safety, and whether judges have adequate training and information to identify abuse and protect victims. Changes could improve protections for women and children caught in abusive relationships.

Crime & Policing Social Care

MPs most likely to speak

Clive JonesLiberal Democrats

Wokingham

Debate sponsor/lead member (calendar Members field)Voting record

Tessa MuntLiberal Democrats

Wells and Mendip Hills

Spoken on crime, social-care (83 times, 40pts); Known positions: crime: opposed, crime: questioning, crime: supportive (30pts); Committee: justice committee (20pts)Voting record

Sarah RussellLabour Party

Congleton

Spoken on crime, social-care (63 times, 40pts); Known positions: crime: supportive, crime: questioning, crime: opposed (30pts); Committee: justice committee (20pts)Voting record

Christine JardineLiberal Democrats

Edinburgh West

Spoken on crime, social-care (99 times, 40pts); Known positions: crime: questioning, crime: supportive, social-care: supportive (30pts); Committee: women and equalities committee (20pts)Voting record

Sir Ashley FoxConservative and Unionist Party

Bridgwater

Spoken on crime, social-care (72 times, 40pts); Known positions: crime: opposed, crime: supportive, crime: questioning (30pts); Committee: justice committee (20pts)Voting record

Domestic abuse and safeguarding within the family justice system

MPs most likely to speak

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