Clause 82 - Restriction on taking children out

Part of Adoption and Children Bill – in a Public Bill Committee at 10:45 am on 11 December 2001.

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Photo of Robert Walter Robert Walter Conservative, North Dorset 10:45, 11 December 2001

I was conscious of the Minister's disapproval when I spoke of Commonwealth citizens as though they were passing foreigners—it was meant lightheartedly. I am concerned about why that particular group has been singled out. We have historical links with the Commonwealth, but by a succession of treaties we now have links with citizens of the European Union. Perhaps the Minister can help by telling me what sort of child would be a Commonwealth citizen and not habitually resident in the United Kingdom.