SAFEGUARDING RUNAWAY AND MISSING CHILDREN

Early day motion 866, tabled 7 February 2007 by Helen Southworth (Labour). Signed by 206 members.

That this House believes that protecting vulnerable children is core business of Government; notes that research by the Children's Society indicates that 100,000 children each year run away or go missing from home or care, of whom 12 per cent. are running from abuse and around eight per cent. are hurt or harmed while away; further notes the contents of the Ten minute Rule Bill which would safeguard runaway or missing children; and calls on the Government to seek a legislative opportunity for the House to consider the Bill at an early date.

Signatures by party: Labour 151, Liberal Democrat 31, Conservative 19, DUP 2, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1, UUP 1.