After section 17

Part of Family Law (Scotland) Bill: Stage 3 – in the Scottish Parliament at 3:30 pm on 15 December 2005.

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Photo of Kenny MacAskill Kenny MacAskill Scottish National Party 3:30, 15 December 2005

We require not simply to warn of the consequences, but to stress the importance of the order. Having contact is an obligation that should be treated responsibly and with respect—the buzzword that is flying around this chamber and others. If someone applies for contact, the order should be adhered to. There should be a warning to mothers, but equally, there should be a warning to fathers. They would have the opportunity to take legal advice on the matter. It is important that we maintain an opportunity to make it quite clear that the contact order is important, not simply in the legal process, but in how we view parents' obligations to their child.