§ Mr. Goodladasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidance he has issued to local authorities on the criteria to be used in decisions on the removal of children from foster care.
§ Mr. MoyleLocal authorities have a statutory duty under Section 12 of the Children Act 1948—as amended—in reaching any decision relating to a child in their care, to give first consideration to the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child throughout his childhood and, so far as practicable, to ascertain his wishes and feelings regarding the decision and give due consideration to them having regard to his age and understanding. This duty applies in relation to decisions taken to remove a child from foster care.