David Ruffley MP has today released new figures obtained during his questioning of Harriet Harman, Minister of State at the Ministry of Justice, which reveal that the number of children who have been subject to new care proceedings in Suffolk rose by 64 percent in 2006.

In 2005 there were 90 new care proceedings in Suffolk, in 2006 this figure had risen to 148- an increase of 64 percent.

In England and Wales between 2003 and 2006 the number of proceedings rose from 12,022 to 12,590- an increase of only 5 percent.

The increase in the number of new care proceedings in Suffolk also outstripped most of the other counties in the East of England by a huge ratio.

David said:

'These new House of Commons figures reveal that the increase in new child care proceedings in Suffolk is out of step with the rest of the region and the country.

'This could mean that either the County Council is making a particular effort in this area or that the situation in Suffolk is worse than in neighbouring counties.

'I hope that this increase is simply the result of the work that Suffolk County Council is doing to ensure the wellbeing of children in our County. Therefore, I have written to the County Council's portfolio holders for Children and Young People's Services, Patricia O'Brien, and Public Protection, Joanna Spicer, asking for their views on the matter.

'We must ensure that those most vulnerable in our society, such as young children, are receiving the care and attention they so desperately need.'