NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR YOUNG RUNAWAYS

Early day motion 452, tabled 7 December 2006 by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 67 members.

That this House welcomes the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children's Beyond Refuge report calling for greater funding and a more appropriate and informed national strategy to help the 100,000 young children that run away each year; highlights with concern that under current provision the likelihood of continued family breakdown and repeated running away increases; further highlights the increased dangers of such children being open to exploitation, and involvement in criminal and harmful activities; and calls on the Government to review its current provision in this area and to incorporate the recommendations of the report on a national strategy to protect young runaways, including the swift establishment of a national network of safe places for children and young people.

Signatures by party: Labour 36, Liberal Democrat 19, Conservative 5, DUP 5, Plaid Cymru 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.