HC Deb 08 May 1984 vol 59 cc356-7W
37. Mr. Hayes

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will seek to reform the law so that parental rights are removed and access to children in care determined only in a court of law where the parent is legally aided and a full party to the proceedings; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

The Select Committee on Social Services has just published a report on children in care.

Among the recommendations of the Committee are proposals concerned with access to children in care, the removal of parental rights and the status of parents in care proceedings. The Government are giving careful consideration to the Committee's report and will be responding to it in due course.