§ 99. Mr. Hastingsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many local authorities have responded to the invitation in his Circular 157/50 of 139W 31st July, 1950, and appointed a coordinating officer and what progress has been made in the prevention of ill-treatment or neglect of children in their homes.
§ Mr. EdeOver two-thirds of the local authorities concerned have adopted the suggestion that they should designate a co-ordinating officer and I hope that those authorities who have not yet reached a decision will shortly do so. The response to the circular shows that, in general, local authorities are alive to their responsibilities and, with the co-operation of voluntary organisations, are anxious to do all that they can to prevent the ill-treatment or neglect of children.