EVERYONE, including David Blunkett, is entitled to a private life.

However, when there is a potential impact on his duties as Home Secretary, there is a legitimate public interest in his private life.

As such, there are aspects of Mr Blunkett's relationship with Kimberly Quinn, those subject to an independent review, which are legitimately in the public domain.

It is regrettable, yet perhaps unavoidable, that other individuals have been dragged into the glare of the public eye.

The adults involved are aware of the situation and are able to exercise a degree of control over matters.

Mrs Quinn's two-year-old son, however, has no control over events.

We understand the reasoning of the judge at yesterday's hearing to give his ruling in public. But this must not be allowed to become a precedent.

At all times, family courts must have the welfare of children as their overriding concern. The involvement of the Home Secretary must not be allowed to alter that priority.