It would be too difficult and potentially costly to split child benefits between two parents, according to the Island's treasury minister.
Alex Allison was responding in Tynwald to a question from Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse about whether it would be possible.
Mr Moorhouse pointed to situations where children are cared for in more than one household.
Dr Allinson explained there was already some support available for such parents:
Deadline looms for by-election nominations
Time's running out to get your forms filled in if you'd like to stand as a commissioner in Marown.
Biker in UK hospital after Mountain crash
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a crash on the Mountain Road yesterday afternoon.
Trial event closes roads in Peel and Ramsey
There'll be road restrictions in Peel and Ramsey during a motorsport event this weekend.
Castletown police station could be yours... for £250,000
Fancy owning a landmark building in the south of the Island?
Brewery advertising for operator for landmark Laxey pub
Could you run one of Laxey's best-known pubs?
Hospice cafe reopens next week after refurb
A much-loved café will be throwing open its doors again next week.
Another one bites the gust - as Ramsey rocks cancelled
A huge live music event in Ramsey this weekend has been cancelled.
Mountain Road closed again after crash
The Mountain Road is currently closed after a crash.
