§ Mrs. Wiseasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many children attend day nurseries and what proportion this is of the total number of children aged under five years; and what comparative
678Wtheir undertaking to continue in their authority's employment for a specified time on the completion of their training or, in default, to repay all or a part of the cost incurred. I understand that in practice local authorities are normally prepared to waive this obligation on compassionate grounds. The employment by a local authority of staff with outstanding obligations to another authority is a matter for the authority concerned. I do not consider that it would be appropriate in the present circumstances for me to offer guidance.