§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the responsibility of local authorities and his Department for the maintenance of privately-fostered children, in the event of the natural parents or guardians defaulting on their payments to foster parents.
§ Mr. MoyleAlthough no specific responsibilties are laid down in such cases, 527W local authorities have a duty to satisfy themselves about the welfare of privately fostered children. Financial arrangements for their maintenance are, however, entirely a matter for agreement between the foster parents and the natural parents. If a child is abandoned by his parents or guardian and if in the professional judgment of the local authority intervention is necessary in the interests of the welfare of the child, the local authority has a duty to receive him into care.