HC Deb 25 January 1994 vol 236 cc231-2W
16. Mr. Clifton-Brown

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment she has made of the way in which local authority social services are using their discretion in the treatment of children placed in their care, particularly with regard to the provision for trips abroad.

Mr. Bowis

The framework for treatment of children in care by local authorities is contained in the Children Act 1989, regulations and associated guidance. It is the responsibility of the elected members of each local authority to ensure that these are complied with and that the resources involved are properly spent. I have made it clear, however, that trips abroad for young offenders are inappropriate.