Written question asked by Debra Shipley (Labour) on Thursday, 21 November 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 3 December 2002. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 December 2002 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, if he will list the departments with which he has interdepartmental links regarding the protection of children from physical and sexual abuse; and when he has had meetings with each of these departments since May 1997.

Answer: Ms Shipley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the Departments with which he has interdepartmental links regarding the protection of children from physical and sexual abuse; and when he has had meetings with each of these Departments since May 1997. [83349] Jacqui Smith: The Department works closely with all other Government Departments which have an interest in safeguarding children. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health has had no meetings with ministerial colleagues specifically regarding the protection of children from physical and sexual abuse. I have policy responsibility for child protection and therefore attend interdepartmental meetings in this connection.

Secondary information