§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his answer of 607W 21 March 2002, Official Report, column 483W, if he will list the terms of reference of the thematic inspection into child protection. [51629]
§ Mr. DenhamHer Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary conducted a Thematic Inspection entitled "Child Protection" in 1999. The terms of reference were as follows: "To examine the role of the police service in protecting children, within a multi-agency context, and with particular reference to strategic direction, effectiveness, efficiency, innovation and good practice". Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary are currently part of an Inter-Agency inspection of safeguards for children. The lead inspectorate of this inspection is the Social Services Inspectorate. Attached is a copy of the objectives for this inspection which has been placed in the Library. Any further information on the inspection should be obtained from the Department of Health.
§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent representations he has received from chief constables on the way in which police authorities investigate historic allegations of child abuse. [51633]
§ Mr. DenhamMy right hon. Friend, the Home Secretary (Mr. Blunkett) has not received any recent representations from chief constables on this matter. However, I have met with the Association of Chief Police Officers' lead officer on child abuse, Mr. Terence Grange, to discuss these issues. It is of course for police forces and not police authorities to investigate allegations of child abuse.