In the session before her, four out of five of the expert panel said that it wasn’t wise to introduce legislation this year, due to the need to wait for firm evidence from the pathfinders pilot. They considered it risky to replace current law when there is no supportive evidence.

The minister for children and families said that the draft bill will be evaluated throughout the remainder of the pathfinder projects, with regular updates given to all throughout. She said she is confident that there is enough time and that she is willing to listen to suggestions for changes that need to be made throughout process. She added that current reports from pathfinders and parents are 'very positive'.

The government still expects to finalise the bill by early 2013 and gain royal assent in 2014.