The Argus and MPs today called on Home Secretary David Blunkett to review the law following the John Smith child cruelty case.

Sussex Police and the Crown Prosecution Service charged Simon and Michelle McWilliam for murder but the case failed at the committal stage.

The district judge in Brighton ruled there was insufficient evidence to say which of the pair inflicted the fatal blow on four-year-old John.

It was similar to the case of a Brighton couple convicted of cruelty to children. Three babies in their care, according to expert witnesses, were smothered to death but murder charges against the pair failed for the same reason.

Simon Bradshaw, editor-in-chief of The Argus, today wrote to Mr Blunkett asking for a review and Des Turner, Brighton Kemp Town MP, hopes to meet the Home Secretary on Monday.

They have been backed by Hove MP Ivor Caplin and Brighton Pavilion MP David Lepper.

The Argus last year met with the then home secretary, Jack Straw, on the same issue and he responded by announcing he was considering bringing in a new law of killing by cruelty.

The crime would carry a maximum 14-year sentence and the charge would not include the burden of proving which of two guardians inflicted fatal injuries.

The McWilliams, of Gardner Road, Fishersgate, Southwick, are spending their first weekend behind bars after being jailed for eight years at Lewes Crown Court on Monday for a catalogue of cruelty to the boy.

Their adoptive son died from an brain haemorrhage and had 54 injuries on his body.

Dr Turner said: "This city, in successive years, has had two cases where children have died but murder charges have failed.

"I do not believe they are isolated and there may be many more up and down the country."

Mr Lepper said: "Des and I have had discussions with Allan Bowman, head of Brighton and Hove social services, and all of us agree we now need to pressure the Government on this issue of joint enterprise."

Mr Caplin said: "It is important a proper, fair and legal solution is found to this impasse."