Member

The amendment proposes not to preclude local authorities from taking other non-legal actions and providing support rather than pursuing legal actions. It is, of course, wholly right that local authorities, as we discussed last week, should take a supportive role to provide advice and guidance to parents. However, in some cases such actions will not be effective in securing a child’s education and the option must be open to local authorities to have that child registered at a school, even as a final measure. Without that option, a child could be left in a situation where they are not receiving a suitable education for an extended period. That would certainly not be in their best interests. I hope, therefore, that the noble Lord will feel able to withdraw his amendment.