---

Children and Young Persons Bill [HL]

I have no expectation of any positive response from the Minister on this. I am sad when I say that because I think that his heart may well be with us on this but for the policy of his Government, who have exemptions from the Convention on Human Rights in relation to the two key areas of immigration and children in custody. Set in that frame, the Minister might find it difficult to agree. However, I support the amendment substantially. I declare an interest as the deputy chair of CAFCASS, and, in any event, we have enough work to keep us going. If these children were indigenous to this country, there would be an outcry, but, because this matter is linked to immigration, we have no hope of gaining media support for this group of extraordinarily vulnerable young people and children. I had not intended to speak on this issue but, having spoken on the others, I felt that that would be going against my principles. These are the children who disappear into child-abusive situations—into prostitution and ghettos. Young prostitutes whom you meet on the streets often started their lives in this way. The noble Lord, Lord Ramsbotham, said all the other things that I wanted to say about inconsistency. We know that some local authorities have grasped this nettle and, therefore, we have examples of good practice where something can be done. There are other areas where children disappear, never to be seen again, and everyone is grateful that they do not have to worry any more. Consistency in standards would make a huge difference. I know that the Government are trying to work in that direction but I hope that they will do even more in terms of these vulnerable youngsters.