Family Test

Debate between Baroness Altmann and Baroness Lister of Burtersett

Tuesday 26th January 2016 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Lister of Burtersett]

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what impact the Family Test has had on policy-making.

[The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions (Baroness Altmann) (Con)]

My Lords, the family test is an integral part of the policy-making process. There is a cross-government commitment to embed the family test in all domestic policy considerations. The Department for Work and Pensions has established a dedicated team to support government departments and ensure that the family test is applied in a meaningful way.

--- Later in debate ---

[Baroness Lister of Burtersett (Lab)]

My Lords, the DWP recommends, in its guidance to other departments on the family test, that they consider publication of any assessment. However, it has rejected calls from family organisations and faith groups that it should do so itself on the policy in the Welfare Reform and Work Bill to limit financial support to two children. Could the Minister explain why? Will she commit to routine publication in future, in the interests of transparency and of the explicit family perspective on policy-making that we were promised?

[Baroness Altmann]

My Lords, the family test is included in and incorporated into advice to Ministers on new policy. It is not a pass or fail exercise; it is about helping to make informed decisions about how to support strong and stable families. It is much broader than a tick-box exercise, which seems to be the thrust of the question.