Family Law

The father of Baby Peter is planning to sue Haringey Council for failing to protect his son.

The father, who cannot be named, is believed to be seeking £200,000 and claims that he told social workers five months before Peter's death in August 2007 that he was in danger from Steven Barker, who was named yesterday as the lover of the boy's mother, Tracey Connelly. Legal commentators have said he could claim double that amount.

Peter's father took early retirement since the toddler's death two years ago.

Haringey also faces a multimillion pound pay-out to five officials sacked over the scandal.

The former head of children's services, Sharon Shoesmith, is seeking more than £1m compensation in her claim of sexual discrimination. Four ex-colleagues could also win more than £60k each for unfair dismissal.

The council has already apologised, suggesting it may try to settle Peter's father's claim out of court to avoid further negative publicity.

Peter's father first raised the possibility of bringing legal action against the authority in February.