Cafcass

– in the House of Commons at 11:30 am on 2 November 2005.

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Photo of Julie Morgan Julie Morgan Labour, Cardiff North 11:30, 2 November 2005

What discussions he has had with ministerial colleagues in Wales about the operation of the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service in Wales.

Photo of Nick Ainger Nick Ainger Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Office of the Secretary of State for Wales

I have regular discussions with the Assembly Minister for Social Justice and Regeneration to discuss a range of issues. That includes the operation of the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service in Wales.

Photo of Julie Morgan Julie Morgan Labour, Cardiff North

Is my hon. Friend aware that CAFCASS Cymru, which works with some of the most vulnerable children and families in Wales, has no waiting list in terms of allocating workers in both private and public law? Does he agree that that is a huge step forward and that the agency needs to be congratulated on its achievements, especially in view of the recent chequered history of CAFCASS?

Photo of Nick Ainger Nick Ainger Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Office of the Secretary of State for Wales

I certainly join my hon. Friend in congratulating CAFCASS Cymru. Since its transfer to the National Assembly for Wales, it has far exceeded performance targets on referral time of cases to guardians. That results in children—many of whom are extremely vulnerable and may be victims of abuse and family break-up—being helped far more quickly. Six thousand children a year will benefit from this improved service. The transfer has been a really great success and all staff should be congratulated.

Minister

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