§ Mr. Bill WalkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has for the future of adoption allowance schemes approved under section 32 of the Children Act 1975; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythMy right hon. and learned Friend has published today a summary report on the outcome of a research project designed to assess the effectiveness of the adoption allowance schemes in Scotland. The favourable outcome of that research has led him to the view that schemes, operated on an experimental basis since 1982, should become a continuing feature of adoption legislation. In accordance with the statutory requirement, he will shortly lay an order before Parliament, seeking the approval to provide a permanent statutory base for the schemes by repealing the original temporary provisions.