HC Deb 28 March 1973 vol 853 cc318-9W
57. Mr. Cyril Smith

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has for issuing guidance to local authorities about the role of education welfare officers, medical social workers, and child guidance services in the new local government structure and for advising local authorities into which department such services should be absorbed.

Mr. Graham Page

No standard management structure will suit all areas: subject to the statutory framework it is a matter for local decisions. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services will announce his proposals when he decides on the future of medical social work; a consultation paper about future arrangements for child guidance will be issued shortly; and the Government are considering, in consultation with interested parties, whether there is a need for guidance about the employment of education welfare officers.