The Member of Parliament for Burton and Uttoxeter, Kate Kniveton, secured and held a debate in the House of Commons today (13/03/24) on the topic of presumption of parental involvement in the family courts system.
In a landmark ruling in 2021, Ms Kniveton waived her right to anonymity and the Court of Appeal ruled that the findings of fact against her ex-husband, confirming allegations of repeated rape and abuse should be made public. However, the MP’s time within the family court system was far from over. Despite the Court confirming that Ms Kniveton’s ex-husband was an abusive and violent man, it was decided that contact with the child should continue through a contact centre and that Ms Kniveton should pay for half the cost of that contact.
During the debate, Ms Kniveton spoke of how only after further costly and lengthy legal proceedings, a ruling was made to overturn that decision following a challenge from Ms Kniveton.
The MP is now hoping the decision will set a future precedent for the Courts and called on the Government in Parliament to build on its work from the Domestic Abuse Act to provide more support to victims. Ms Kniveton is calling on the Government to urgently review the presumption of parental involvement to address its detrimental effects to both victims and children.
Commenting, Kate Kniveton MP said:
“When I was elected, I made a promise to be an advocate for victims of domestic abuse. At that time, I had no idea that the court proceedings between my ex-husband and I would continue for another 4 years.
“The thought of ever speaking about these extremely personal details was a terrifying thought. But after years of being bullied and controlled by a seemingly powerful man, I knew that I had to stand up and use my platform to help others.
“I am pleased to have secured today’s debate and I urge the Government to reform this presumption of contact urgently. Contact should be earned – it should not be given to abusers. I will not waste any more time in telling my story and trying to make changes to help other survivors protect their children.”
