§ Mr. Hepworthasked the Home Secretary the number of girls who have, within the last 12 months, absconded from the Northenden Road approved school, Sale, Cheshire; and how many transfers have been made as a result?
§ Mr. LloydEight girls absconded in the last 12 months. Three girls were transferred to other schools, and a fourth, on being certified mentally defective, was removed to an appropriate institution.
§ Mr. Hepworthasked the Home Secretary whether he will initiate inquiries to ascertain whether the food and treatment of girls at the Northenden Road approved school, Sale, Cheshire, has been the subject of any complaints within the last 12 months; and, if so, whether he can give details?
§ Mr. LloydThe only complaint received at the Home Office during the last 12 months was made by the father of a girl in a letter asking for her release. This complaint is being investigated. I may add that during the same period five visits of inspection were paid by Home Office Inspectors who were satisfied both as to the dietary and treatment of the girls.