Commons Sense

House of Commons · Public Bill Committee

- Sitting 14

02 November 2021

Proposed by Craig Whittaker Con Calder Valley

Children & Families

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

At a glance

Key points

  • Craig Whittaker discusses new clauses related to age assessment for young people with disputed ages.
  • The MP suggests using scientific methods of age assessment as an additional source of evidence.
  • This involves the use of radiographs and X-rays to assess bone development and dental maturity in other European countries.

Issue summary

The MP is discussing new clauses related to age assessment for young people with disputed ages.

Action requested

The MP suggests using scientific methods of age assessment as an additional source of evidence to help decision makers make accurate judgments. This involves the use of radiographs and X-rays in other European countries to assess bone development and dental maturity.

Key facts

  • Clause 58 is a placeholder clause for substantive provision on age assessment.
  • New clauses 29 and 35 aim to replace clause 58 entirely.
  • Local authorities must conduct an age assessment if an individual’s age is disputed, involving two appropriately qualified social workers.
  • Scientific methods of age assessment are used in Finland (radiographs), Norway (radiographs), France (X-rays), and Greece (dental X-rays).
  • In these countries, experts use multiple types of imaging to determine a person's age accurately.
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