<Tr> <Th_colspan="2"> Text of statute as originally enacted </Th> </Tr> <Tr> <Th_colspan="2"> Revised text of statute as amended </Th> </Tr> <P> The Children Act 1989 allocates duties to local authorities, courts, parents, and other agencies in the United Kingdom, to ensure children are safeguarded and their welfare is promoted . It centres on the idea that children are best cared for within their own families; however, it also makes provisions for instances when parents and families do not co-operate with statutory bodies . </P> <P> The Children Bill was announced as part of the Queen's Speech on 22 November 1988 and formally introduced to the House of Lords the following day by the Lord Chancellor, Lord Mackay of Clashfern . The Bill was given its second reading in the Lords on 6 December, and was passed to the committee stage on 13 December . Committee debates were held on 19 and 20 December and 23 January 1989 . It reached the report stage on 2 February, with debates on 6, 7 and 16 February . On 16 March the Bill was given its third reading in the Lords before being passed to the House of Commons . </P>

Who has the power to formally commit a child into care