Nadhim Zahawi questioned over calls for Government apology for historic ‘forced adoption’ cases

• Watch Parliament TV: The right to family life: adoption of children of unmarried women 1949-1976
• Inquiry: The right to family life: adoption of children of unmarried women 1949-1976
• Joint Committee on Human Rights

Between 1949 and 1976, a lack of adequate social security support and pressure from institutions, families and wider society left unmarried mothers feeling they had little option but to have their children adopted. Many have called for better practical support for the mothers and children affected by these adoption practices, greater acknowledgement of the pain and suffering they have endured, and some for a formal apology from the Government. 

In this evidence session the Joint Committee will question the Education Secretary on whether the Government should issue a formal apology for historic failures in the adoption system. It will also examine how the Government is assisting those affected by historic adoption practices to deal with the long term and ongoing consequences of these events. This will include how tracing and intermediary services could be improved and better counselling provided for those still struggling with the impact of what happened to them. 

Witnesses

Wednesday 25 May in the Thatcher Room, Portcullis House

At 3pm 

• Nadhim Zahawi MP, Secretary of State for Education 
• Sarah Jennings, Civil Servant, Department of Education’s Deputy Director of Adoption, Family Justice and Care Leavers

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

Image: Parliamentary copyright