§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidelines he has issued concerning the adoption of children by bachelors.
§ Mr. MoyleI have not recently issued any guidelines on this subject. Provided that he satisfies the statutory requirements as to age and domicile, a bachelor is eligible to make application for an adoption order. It is a matter for adoption agencies to assess the suitability of a prospective adopter in any particular case, and in making any decision relating to the adoption of a child both they and the courts are required to give first consideration to the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child throughout his childhood.