Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Emma Lewell-Buck and James Brokenshire

Monday 22nd July 2019 Commons Chamber

[James Brokenshire]

I will look into the matter and come back to my hon. Friend.

[Mrs Emma Lewell-Buck (South Shields) (Lab)]

Representatives of nearly 50% of children’s services have said that they no longer feel able to keep children safe. Recent research has shown that private fostering, children’s homes and social worker agencies have amassed an estimated annual profit of £220 million, while simultaneously costing local authorities £20 million. At what point will the Government put the needs of vulnerable children before private profit?