§ Mr. JannerTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement on the operation and success of the Monklands teenage refuge programme in Airdrie; and whether he has plans to expand this service in Scotland.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe Monklands teenage refuge is part of the services developed by Strathclyde social work department to meet the special needs of young people in crisis. I understand that the department has monitored its operation and concluded that it meets successfully its aim to provide emergency short-stay accommodation for the older teenager. It is for social work authorities to assess the level and type of service or facilities for young people appropriate for their areas.