§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had, and with whom, concerning implementing provisions of the Children Act 1975 to enable parents to be legally represented in care proceedings; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir George YoungThe possibility of implementing a further part of the Children Act 1975 to enable courts to grant legal aid to parents in care proceedings is the subject of discussions between the Department, the Lord Chancellor's Department and the Home Office. However, this would involve a significant increase in legal aid expenditure and must be considered in the context of the Government's general plans for the control of public expenditure.