§ Mr. David Huntasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is satisfied with the present procedures for appointing directors of social services.
§ Dr. OwenAs indicated in my reply to the hon. Member on 29th March 1976—[Vol. 908, c.397–8]—the present procedure is designed to protect the interests of the many senior officers who have not in the past, had the opportunity to obtain 497W prescribable qualifications. I am satisfied that until it is possible to prescribe by regulation the qualifications for appointments as director of social services the present procedures should continue.
§ Mr. David Huntasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what procedure is adopted when he exercises his right to prohibit a person put forward for appointment under Section 6(1) of the Local Authority Social Services Act 1970; how many times he so prohibited appointments in 1975 and 1974; what steps are taken to advise the person so prohibited; and what right of appeal or review lies against his decision.
§ Dr. OwenSection 6(4) of the Local Authority Social Services Act 1970 requires a local authority to consult with the Secretary of State before making an appointment to the post of director of social services. If the Secretary of State is of the opinion that any person among those from whom selection is to be made is not a fit person to hold that office he may give directions to the authority prohibiting the appointment. No such direction has been given under the present administration. Directions prohibiting an appointment are given to the appointing authority and not to the applicant. It is open to the authority to make representations to the Secretary of State against the giving of such directions, but the Act makes no provision for an appeal by an individual against the Secretary of State's decision.
§ Mr. David Huntasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many directors of social services do not currently have permissible qualifications, as defined in the answer to the hon. Member for Wirral on 29th March.
§ Dr. OwenThere are no directors of social services in post who do not meet the criteria laid down in the circular letter LASS 14/73. Information is not held centrally of the number of directors in post who hold an appropriate degree or diploma.