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Breakthrough for children of alcohol dependents in moving debate

February 2, 2017

Click for video ►

Junior Heath Minister Nicola Blackwood (pictured) agreed no child of an alcoholic should feel alone in a emotional debate on alcohol harm.

“Great social change requires three things: long-term political will, non-partisan partnership and it requires bravery. I have heard all three today,” she said, concluding her speech to a sparsely-attended meeting of MPs at Westminster Hall.

This came after poignant testimony from Labour’s Liam Byrne and Shadow Heath Minister Jonathan Ashworth, who both had alcohol dependent fathers. Byrne described the lack of support he received, as he fell between the cracks in the system.

A transcript can be found here and a video here. ■

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