Mumsnet election

10.40.28pm GMT Thu 28th Jan 2010

LIB DEM FAMILY POLICY

Jacquie Bell, Stockton South Lib Dem Parliamentary Spokesperson, spoke on the BBC Tees John Foster Breakfast Programme regarding Family Policies.

She noted that this year's election is the Mumsnet election - the social networking group has been asking questions of all the parties.

The Conservative Tax Break policy is unclear - it has kept changing as to which family groups will be included and even in the Daily Telegraph the Conservative spokesman on Family Policy, David Willetts notes that changes wont be in the next Parliament because changes/funding aren't agreed. Lib Dems have argued the situation of families where a man leaves his wife with children for a partner with children - his wife could lose out whilst his new relationship gains.

The Tory line seems to be more message than real money.

As to the Dads Guide from Labour to be given to all new fathers - it's not clear how well read this might be. An interactive on line format to answer questions rather than a 10 page common booklet may be another option.

Nick Clegg has noted the need for more flexible parental leave to enable dads to engage with their children - last year after the birth of his youngest son, he had a couple of weeks off whilst his wife has up to a year.

The Jury is still out on how best to support families… Family Policy is likely to be a key election area.