Health chief admits some laws are outdated

A 'robust' assessment process is undertaken before permission is granted to adults hoping to adopt a child, according to the health and social care minister.

However, Howard Quayle admits some of the laws in place are outdated and are being reviewed.

Speaking in the House of Keys today, Mr Quayle said while the final decision was ultimately taken by a court, adoption was often considered a 'last resort' and priority would always be to maintain a family unit.

An adoption panel headed by an independent chairman considered every case to be unique, said Mr Quayle.

He added its review included medical and genetic checks with a full background assessment of the children, birth parents and potential adoptive parents.