§ Lord Jenkins of Putneyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What are the membership and terms of reference of their review of the arrangements for the protection of working children's health, safety, welfare and general development; whether the review will include the employment of children in entertainment and advertising; and whether it will be within its remit to recommend the total prohibition of the employment of children in any capacity. [HL3322]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Baroness Hayman)The review is being carried out by officials from the Departments of Health, Trade and Industry, Education and Employment, the Cabinet Office and the Health and Safety Executive. Expert practical advice is being provided by the National Child Employment Network.
The terms of reference of the working group are to:
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- consider the present arrangements for protecting children in relation to employment, including regulatory arrangements, levels of protection and enforcement;
- examine any research or other evidence it considers necessary from any source including interested organisations and individuals;
- make any necessary investigations;
- draw up any proposals necessary to ensure that children's health, safety, welfare and development is strictly protected and that they are shielded from exploitation;
- report jointly to relevant Ministers at the Department of Health and the Department of Trade and Industry by the end of 1998.
The review includes the employment of children in entertainment and advertising. It is free to recommend anything which will further the protection of children.