Paliamentary Question
Posted by News Editor
Tuesday, January 24, 2006

Claire Curtis-Thomas (Crosby, Lab) asked the the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 29th November 2005, Official Report, column 452W, on the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, what the basis is for his confidence in social workers' awareness of the risks of prejudicing future police investigations; and if he will make a statement.

Hazel Blears (Minister of State (Policing, Security and Community Safety), Home Office) replied:

It is the responsibility of the Senior Investigating Officer to set the parameters of the police investigation and to ensure that third parties involved in the case are aware of the risks of prejudicing the investigation.

'Working together to safeguard children: a guide to inter-agency working to safeguard and promote the welfare of children' was jointly published by the Home Office, Department for Health and Department for Skills and Education in 1999.

Chapter five includes guidance on investigative interviews with children where social workers have a role and states at paragraph 5.36 that "leading or suggestive communications should always be avoided". In addition, paragraphs 6.24 to 6.26 sets out guidance in relation to investigating organised and multiple abuse and states the need for the police and other agencies involved to agree clear written protocols in relation to all key operational and policy matters.

Hansard reference. Acknowledgement