Department of Health concede national inquiry into child abuse

The Department of Health yesterday acknowledged that a national inquiry into child abuse in residential homes will be considered - but not for some time. With increasing evidence of widespread sexual and physical abuse in homes in various parts of the country over several years, there have been growing calls for a full inquiry.

A health department spokesman said: "We are aware of calls for a nationwide inquiry into child abuse. Councils already have a duty to investigate allegations of child abuse working with the police and other agencies. While trials against former child care workers continue, decisions on an inquiry cannot be made."