Written question asked by Jimmy Wray (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 February 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 March 2003. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Monday, 3 March 2003 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps his Department takes to ensure that protection and assistance is given to children separated from their parents who are seeking asylum. - Inc ref to Children Act 1989.

Answer: Mr. James Wray: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps his Department takes to ensure that protection and assistance is given to children separated from their parents who are seeking asylum. [100314] Jacqui Smith: I have been asked to reply. Unaccompanied, asylum-seeking children as supported by councils with social services responsibilities, in accordance with the duties laid on them by the Children Act 1989. The Act draws no distinction between such children and other children in need.

Secondary information