Written question asked by John Bercow (Conservative) on Thursday, 28 February 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 March 2008. It was answered by Lord Brennan of Canton (Labour) on Monday, 10 March 2008 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Children: Protection

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what progress has been made on his Department's proposals to replace Safeguarding Children Involved in Prostitution with broader guidance aimed at safeguarding children from sexual exploitation, including those who have been groomed over the internet; and when he expects to publish this new guidance.

Answer: The Government have been discussing with key organisations with expertise in this area how the guidance on Safeguarding Children Involved in Prostitution can be updated and expanded to help local agencies safeguard children from sexual exploitation more generally. We have commissioned ease study research examining how local areas currently tackle this issue, which will also help to ensure the guidance is informed by effective current practice. We plan to publish a draft for consultation before the summer.

Secondary information