A report published today by the joint committee on the draft domestic abuse bill said the legislation was "silent" on the "plight of children" affected by violent and controlling behaviour perpetrated by adults.
The committee said its report contained "important recommendations which would ensure the needs of children are better recognised in law".
Members raised concerns about a lack of legal definition for children as victims in the bill after hearing evidence that highlighted a "negative impact on services for children who have suffered such trauma".
"We recommend the bill be amended so the status of children as victims of domestic abuse that occurs in the household is recognised and welcome the assurance from the Home Office minister that the government seeks to include the harm caused to children in abusive households in the definition.
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