§ Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he intends to act on the Lucy Gates 608W inquiry recommendation that future child abuse inquiries should be conducted by his Department; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonWe have given careful consideration to the views expressed by members of the inquiry panel, but do not consider it would be feasible for the Department routinely to conduct all child abuse inquiries. The Department is, however, formulating proposals for guidance on the conduct of inquiries and we intend to issue a consultative document shortly.