National's Justice spokesperson Wayne Mapp today announced that National will support Muriel Newman's Family Courts (Openness of Proceedings) Bill to select committee for consideration.

"Over the last few weeks National has canvassed public and legal opinion on this important issue. It is clear that it's an issue that needs to be properly aired.

"While we believe that the Bill as drafted goes too far, there are real lessons to be drawn from Australia. Family Courts in Australia enable publication of cases, providing details of the parties are kept private. It gives the public an insight into the working of the Court, and the principles of the decisions.

"The operations of the Court should be open to public scrutiny, but the private lives of people, especially children, must be protected. Sending the Bill to select committee will enable a sensible compromise," Dr Mapp said.

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