We want child maintenance to be automatically deducted from earnings by default, similar to tax, National Insurance and pensions. This would provide reliable support for children, reduce conflict and prevent payments being delayed, withheld or used as leverage between parents.

Children should not miss out on financial support because of disputes or non-payment between parents. We want child maintenance to be automatically deducted from earnings by default, similar to tax and pension contributions. This would provide greater financial security for children, reduce conflict and remove the need for parents to repeatedly chase payments intended for their children. Children’s financial support should be automatic, not dependent on one parent choosing to pay.