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Children and Young Persons Bill [HL]

I supported the amendment on a previous occasion, although the overall principle behind what is being proposed may need some alteration. Above all, however, the argument that the children themselves are not satisfied that their wishes in this respect are being listened to needs to be heard more. I take into account the fact that there may be a need to change some wording in the Children Act 1989, as my noble and learned friend just said. Nevertheless, more effort should be made to make generous practical arrangements—going back to the comments of the noble Lord, Lord Judd, about every muscle stretched. It was a good quote; the noble Lord was not here at that moment to hear it quoted, but he is now in his place, so he can now. I hope that the Minister will bear it in mind.