HC Deb 19 May 1993 vol 225 cc193-4W
Mr. Thurnham

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations she has received about allowing voluntary residential schools to provide secure accommodation; what plans she has to amend the Secure Accommodation Regulations under the Children Act 1989; and if she will make a statement.

Estimated numbers of children resident in England and Wales, 1977–91.
(Thousands)
Ages (years):—
Mid-year (30 June) Total children aged under 18 0 1–4 5–9 10–14 15–17
1977 13,272 559 2,492 3,801 4,091 2,329
1978 13,093 568 2,371 3,691 4,071 2,392
1979 12,936 617 2,309 3,536 4,023 2,451
1980 12,776 639 2,317 3,386 3,941 2,493
1981 12,591 634 2,371 3,196 3,889 2,501

Mr. Yeo

A number of organisations have recently made inquiries about the prospect of providing secure accommodation. On 2 March my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State announced our intention to amend regulations to enable private and voluntary providers to provide secure accommodation. We intend to issue a consultation document shortly.