§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if he will make it his policy to accept UN Resolution 836 and establish and promote a Universal Children's day in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement. [133731]
§ Margaret HodgeThe Government's commitment to children and young people has been demonstrated by the creation of the post of Minister for Children, Young People and Families, the pulling together within DfES, from across Government of a range of services for children and families, and the publication of the green paper "Every Child Matters", which sets out a comprehensive programme of reform and improvement for the care of children.
Both the Minister and officials work closely with children and young people themselves. A special edition of the Green Paper specifically aimed at children has been issued, and 50 separate consultation events are being held with children as a part in the consultation process, which lasts until 1 December.
We consider that these measures are likely to be of greater value to children and young people than a Universal Children's Day.