Amid the extensive coverage of the Post Office/Horizon scandal, we wish to shed light on another government agency which raises more potential concern, that being the recent developments regarding the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) powers currently under consultation, specifically the introduction of Accelerated Enforcement, demand attention.

Any implementation of Accelerated Enforcement Powers marks a notable shift, removing the legal certainty of due process by eliminating the necessity of a liability order before enforcement. While the intention may be to streamline processes, it raises valid concerns about potential impacts on the rights and fairness of those involved.

Drawing parallels to the recent Post Office scandal, where ‘self-investigations’ and lack of judicial oversight led to unjust prosecutions, underscores the critical need for transparency, accountability, and fair procedures in any enforcement system.

As an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of our members, we are actively monitoring these developments. It is essential to ensure that any changes in CMS powers are implemented with due consideration for the principles of justice and legal fairness.

We encourage you to stay informed, engage in relevant discussions, and voice any concerns you may have. Your insights and experiences are invaluable in shaping a system that genuinely serves the interests of all parties involved.

We urge you to write to your MP, even if you do not currently utilize the Child Maintenance Service, and bring to their attention the potential for another scandal in the making. A draft letter is included for your convenience – as an election is approaching, now is an opportune time for them to listen to your concerns.

 Please find the letter template by clicking in the title of the article and scrolling down the main website (FNF-BPM) page.

“[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, Postal Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

[Date]

[MP's Full Name] Find your MP here (LINK)

House of Commons

London, SW1A 0AA

Subject: Deep Concerns Regarding Horizon Scandal and DWP Powers

Dear [MP's Last Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the Horizon scandal and the recent proposal to grant the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) the powers to take direct prosecution without judicial oversight. This issue has far-reaching implications for transparency, the potential for misuse of power, and the severe impact it could have on innocent individuals, particularly parents and their children.

The Horizon scandal has already exposed serious flaws in the system, leading to miscarriages of justice and significant harm to individuals and families. Granting the DWP powers for direct prosecution without judicial oversight raises alarms about the potential for further abuse and lack of accountability. It is crucial to uphold the principles of justice and ensure that any legal actions are subject to proper scrutiny.

One of the most concerning aspects is the potential for fatal outcomes that have lifelong impacts on children. The collateral damage caused by these situations extends beyond the immediate legal proceedings and can shape the future well-being and stability of affected children. It is imperative that any proposed changes consider the welfare of children as a top priority.

Moreover, the risk of innocent parents being wrongly imprisoned is a grave concern. Without proper checks and balances, there is a real danger of unjust prosecutions, leading to severe emotional distress for innocent individuals and, consequently, detrimental effects on their children.

I urge you to thoroughly investigate and question the implications of granting the DWP direct prosecution powers without adequate judicial oversight. Transparency and accountability are essential in ensuring a fair and just legal system that safeguards the rights and well-being of all citizens.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will use your influence to address these concerns and work towards a more just and transparent system.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

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