§ Mrs. FyfeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will take steps to improve the quality of childminding services by practical advice, support and training to childminders.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythUnder the Nurseries and Childminders Regulation Act 1948 local authorities are responsible for the registration of childminders, in order396W to ensure certain standards of provision. My right hon. and learned Friend has for a number of years made grants under section 10 of the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 to the National Child Minding Association, to help improve the quality and training of childminders and the service it provides. For 1988–89 he has offered the association substantial additional grant towards the funding of a development officer post for Scotland.