§ Mr. StrangTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the Government's policy concerning the fostering or adoption of children by homosexual couples in stable, long-term relationships.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyCourts and child care and adoption agencies are required to give first consideration to promoting and safeguarding a child's welfare. Agencies must act within a framework of primary legislation and regulations which lay serious obligations on agencies to safeguard the welfare of children. These include requirements for thorough investigation and assessment of individual prospective foster parents and adopters. The law does not allow two people to adopt jointly unless they are married.