05/11/2014

New Measure To Tackle Child Maintenance Arrears

The government has announced a series of new measure to crack down on the non-payment of child maintenance, expected to be introduced in March 2015.

Under the new plans in England, Wales and Scotland parents' payment records could be shared with credit reference agencies, meaning that those who default on child maintenance payments could potentially be refused credit cards and a mortgage.

It is understood the new powers would focus on cases where a 'liability order' has been issued – this is done when arrears have become great enough that a court has had to intervene to legally recognise the debt.

It is hoped the new measures will deter people from allowing the arrears from reaching that level.

(MH/CD)

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