§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is his assessment of the ability of local authorities with unfilled social work posts to fulfill their statutory duties; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what information he has about the current figure for unfilled vacancies in social work posts in local authority social services departments.
§ Mr. NewtonSuch information is not held centrally, but we are aware of a recent report concerning problems in London. The social services inspectorate, which is keeping the position under review, is seeking to assist London authorities to ensure that staff are deployed to best effect and is paying particular attention to the management of child protection services.