Children: Antisocial Behaviour Orders

Mr. Hands
To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what provisions exist for the punishment of parents in respect of breaches of anti social behaviour orders by their children.

Mr. Alan Campbell
I have been asked to reply.

Plans to legislate for mandatory parenting orders when 10 to 15-year-olds breach their ASBO are contained in the Crime and Security Bill. Parenting orders are court-based orders that can be applied for by a range of different agencies in different circumstances. They are intended for parents who are unwilling to engage with voluntary measures. An order will specify requirements for the parent to comply with, for example, to counselling or guidance sessions for a period of up to three months. They may also have conditions imposed on them such as attending meetings with teachers at their child’s school, ensuring their child does not visit a particular place unsupervised or ensuring their child is at home at particular times. These conditions can last for a period up to 12 months. A parent/carer can be prosecuted for failing to keep the requirements of the order. A parenting order is a civil order but breach of the order is an offence punishable by a fine of up to £1,000.