§ Q49. Mr. Dickensasked the Prime Minister if she will allocate specific ministerial responsibility for the welfare and protection of children to co-ordinate the responsibilities of the Department of Health and Social Security, education, police and voluntary services; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterI am fully aware of the need for effective co-ordination on all matters concerned with the welfare and protection of children. But I do not believe that my hon. Friend's proposal would secure the result he earnestly seeks. At present the Secretary of State for Social Services is the lead Minister in the existing arrangements.