Children and Young Persons Bill is passed

Smacking, fostering and provisions for looked-after children in custody were all on the agenda for discussion. But the amendment to current smacking rules was eventually bypassed in the debate, much to the disappointment of campaigners supporting a smacking ban.

MPs also debated the introduction of a National register for foster carers. An amendment urging the immediate introduction of a register was proposed by the shadow minister for children, Tim Loughton, but it was voted out by Labour MPs.

Other 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.

The bill also proposes reforms to looked-after children's services including the introduction of social work practices.

Campaigners and MPs will continue to push for last-minute changes as the bill reaches its final stages in Parliament.

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Read the parliamentary debate in full