Children and Young Persons Bill [HL]

The sentiment of these amendments is undoubtedly sound. If we intend to keep children in care near their homes, it would make sensible economics to have good local provision. However, what does ““sufficient and diverse”” mean and how would you achieve it or know that you had achieved it? The needs of many children and young people are highly complex. If there were the resources, we would wholeheartedly support these amendments, because we would like nothing more than local authorities to be equipped to provide sufficient care for every child in care. The child’s welfare, not cost, should always be the driver of decision-making with regard to care. However, there are instances, such as when children have complex disabilities, as mentioned by the noble Baroness, Lady Howarth of Breckland, when the potential cost is genuinely limitless. Although we applaud the spirit of the amendment, we regret that we cannot support it—if I did, the wrath of the shadow Treasury team would come raining down on my head.