Benedict’s Law, which will better protect school children with allergies, has today been agreed in the House of Lords.
Following Alicia Kearns MP’s original amendment’s decisive victory in the House of Lords on 4th February, the Government entered negotiations with her. At first, the Government was still reluctant to accept the amendment, and wrote to all MPs saying they planned to oppose it and whip their MPs to vote against it. Alicia and Helen Blythe then set about campaigning to convince the Government to change their minds.
The Government thankfully, a few days later, dropped their opposition, and tabled their own amendment-in-lieu, based on the amendment written by Alicia. Benedict’s mother, Helen Blythe, and Alicia, negotiated with the Government, and secured some further last-minute changes to make sure the Government’s Amendment-in-lieu achieved all that was needed.
Benedict’s Law will now enter the statute books when the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill receives Royal Ascent, protecting around 680,000 children with allergies in school, roughly two in every classroom
Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Stamford, said:
“Benedict’s law will transform the lives of children with allergies, making them safer at school. This law is the allergy equivalent of introducing fire extinguishers or defibrillators: rarely used, but life-saving when needed.
“Helen and Peter Blythe have led an incredible campaign in memory of their son and I am honoured to have been able to fight by their side. Benedict was much loved. Benedict’s life mattered and his legacy matters.”
Helen Blythe, Benedict’s Mother and Founder of the Benedict Blythe Foundation, said:
“To be here today with our family, Benedict’s young friends and the supporters who have stood with us, hearing Benedict’s Law being written into the statute book, is incredibly emotional.
To know that this is the first time allergy will be recognised in primary legislation, and that his name will be part of a law that protects children across the country, is something we never thought possible.
We are deeply grateful to Alicia Kearns MP for her leadership and determination in helping make this happen. Nothing will ever change what happened to Benedict, but his legacy will now help keep other children safe."
