A full council debate into the Brighton child cruelty case was called for today.

As more councillors gave their support for a public inquiry, Coun John Sheldon, deputy leader of the Conservative group, gave notice of a motion for a Brighton and Hove Council debate on April 13.

The motion reads: "This council wholeheartedly supports the Evening Argus in calling for a public inquiry into the Brighton child neglect case. Also, the council strongly supports the action of the Evening Argus in demanding that the law be changed to allow parents in such cases to be convicted either individually or collectively."

Three babies in the care of the Brighton couple died and four others suffered years of neglect. The couple have been jailed for cruelty but were acquitted of murder because there was no proof which of the parents, if either, was guilty.

It was Coun Sheldon's late father, former Brighton mayor Danny Sheldon, whose petition paved the way for the landmark public inquiry into the death of Maria Colwell.

Coun Sheldon said: "Thousands signed that petition. I hope the public will show its support this time by attending the council meeting."

Lib Dem leader Coun Paul Elgood has also called for a debate by councillors. Last week, Argus editor Simon Bradshaw wrote to all 78 Brighton and Hove councillors asking for their opinions on a public inquiry and change in the law.

All 26 Conservative councillors and three Lib Dem councillors back the moves. Eleven members of the ruling Labour group are divided in their opinions but the supporters were joined today by Labour councillor Heather James.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.