The family of Jade Ward, murdered by her ex-partner Russell Marsh in 2021, has suffered a setback in their campaign to curb parental rights for killers. MPs rejected an amendment to a Bill that would have suspended such rights for imprisoned parents.
Jade's parents, who now care for her four sons, have been fighting to end Marsh's parental responsibility. Under current law, Marsh retains the right to be consulted on decisions about the children's health, education, and travel, and has continued to contact the family for updates.
Speaking to BBC Radio Wales Breakfast, Jade's father Paul Ward described the situation as "absolutely shocking" and said the boys want no contact with their father. He noted that even obtaining passports for the children requires court approval.
The amendment, moved by Labour's Shadow Minister Ellie Reeves, would have removed parental rights for the duration of the killer's detention. Six Labour MPs voted in favour, nine Conservatives against. A friend of the family, Edward Duggan, who launched a petition with over 130,000 signatures, accused the government of using the same excuses as before.
Labour MP Mark Tami, who supports the campaign, said the government's rejection was disappointing but not surprising, vowing to continue the fight. The Ministry of Justice stated it is exploring ways to "cut off parental rights for these killers" more quickly, while emphasising that judges already prioritise children's welfare.
