Written question asked by Baroness Walmsley (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord West of Spithead (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 July 2009.

Children: ASBOs

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to conduct an independent review of the application of anti-social behaviour orders to children.

Answer: Although the Home Office is not conducting an independent review of anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) given to children, a consortium of research institutions have been commissioned to undertake an evaluation of the comparative effectiveness of interventions to address anti-social behaviour. Results from this evaluation are due to report in 2010. The evaluation will look at anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs), but does not focus on young people, as we are aware of research being carried out by other research bodies that are looking at the impact of anti-social behaviour interventions on young people. We have provided written guidance for anti-social behaviour practitioners and a practitioners' advice line manned by experts in the field and website. We have also held a series of workshops around the country to help practitioners make the best use of the tools and powers. In addition, we have also introduced legislation to require a one-year review period for ASBOs on young people which was formally built into best practice in the latest Home Office guidance issued in August 2006. This was implemented on 1 February 2009.

Secondary information