MP slams coalition government's plans to Abolish Child Trust Funds

Sandra Osborne MP has reacted angrily today to the news that the new coalition government is axing Child Trust Funds and has pledged to campaign for the reversal of the government's decision.

The Fund, established by the Labour government in 2002, gave a guaranteed payment of £250 to all children at birth. Further payments were due to be made on a child's seventh birthday, and there were additional payments for children from poorer households and disabled children. Accounts could also be topped up by contributions from parents and relatives, and can be accessed on the child's 18th birthday.

Sandra said:

'It is disgraceful that the new coalition government intends to scrap the child trust fund including payments to disabled children. The Fund has been benefiting thousands of families in Ayrshire and has helped to create a saving culture amongst parents and children. It will make a real difference to local young people's lives when they reach 18. It is shameful that this very worthwhile measure is one of the first to be targeted by the new coalition government. I will be doing what I can to campaign for the reversal of the government's decision.'