HC Deb 26 March 1974 vol 871 cc261-2
13. Mr. Whitehead

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans she has for implementing the proposals of the Houghton Report on adoption and fostering.

Mrs. Castle

I would refer my hon. Friend to the undertaking in the Gracious Speech that comprehensive proposals will be brought forward to reform the law relating to the adoption, guardianship and fostering of children on the basis of the recommendations of the Departmental Committee on the Adoption of Children.

Mr. Whitehead

I thank my right hon. Friend most warmly for that reply. Those of us who joined her hon. Friend the Under-Secretary in sponsoring the Children Bill hope that this measure will be introduced this Session. This Parliament especially lends itself to measures of this kind, which have wide all-party support.

Mrs. Castle

It is certainly my desire and, of course, that of my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary that we should bring legislation before the House as soon as possible. The great work which my hon. Friend did through his Private Member's Bill will form the basis on which we can build the consultations leading to comprehensive Government proposals.

Mr. Raison

While sharing the belief that this legislation is necessary, may press the right hon. Lady a little further as to timing? Will she also confirm that the legislation will be coming primarily from her Department rather than from the Home Office?

Mrs. Castle

The answer to the second half of the question is certainly "Yes". With regard to time, I can only say that there must clearly be further consultations. This will be a Government measure, not a Private Member's measure. Therefore, as a Department we shall need to consult on some of the details of what will be very comprehensive legislation. I am aware, as we are all aware, of how anxious the whole House is to have this legislation advanced as quickly as possible.