Barry Aspinell said that allowing councillors to make enquiries on constituents' behalf provided vital "checks and balances" that could prevent injustices. "The way the law works is disgusting," he added.
It follows the case of lawyer Sarah Harman, who was rebuked by Mr Justice Munby for sending papers relating to a family law case to her sister, solicitor general Harriet. Until that point many involved in the system, including parents and politicians, were unaware that they could be breaking the law by disclosing details of proceedings involving children. A Department for Constitutional Affairs consultation on easing these restrictions (Children Now, 26 January-1 February) closed on 23 March.
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