The Children and Young Persons Bill has had its third reading in the House of Commons. MPs debated fostering and provisions for looked-after children in custody. Amendments put forward included requirements on local authorities to improve access to records for adult care leavers and take responsibility for looked-after children entering custody and the introduction of a national register for foster carers. The amendment to current smacking rules was eventually bypassed in the debate, to the disappointment of campaigners.

The Bill now reaches its final stages in Parliament.

Further information is available on the Parliament website.