Health Minister Jacqui Smith has published a new consultation document on the implementation of the Adoption (Intercountry Aspects) Act 1999, as part of the Government's commitment to improving the safeguards for all adopted children.

When implemented the Act will - together with equivalent Northern Ireland legislation passed earlier this year - allow the UK to ratify the 1993 Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in respect of Intercountry Adoption.

The consultation document includes draft Regulations to be made under the Act for England and Wales and draft supporting guidance. Councils and voluntary adoption agencies dealing with intercountry adoption will have to comply with the Regulations when they come into force next year.

Jacqui Smith said:
"Adoption is a service for children - not for profit. We are committed to protecting vulnerable children both at home and abroad.

"The publication of this consultation document is an important step forward in our work to ensure that intercountry adoption only takes place where the same safeguards as for domestic adoptions have been applied.

"The ratification of the Hague Convention together with the legislation we have already brought into force and extra safeguards included in the Adoption and Children Bill currently before Parliament, will ensure intercountry adoption only takes place where it is in the best interests of the child and where the adopters have been through the proper assessment and approval procedures.

"These measures will also help to make sure that a consistent service is provided to those who wish to adopt overseas and that they are helped to navigate the often complex procedures. The consultation document is key to meeting our promise to move forward swiftly while actively involving all with an interest in the work to get the process right to benefit the people who matter most - the adopted children."

At the end of the consultation period - all comments need to be made by Wednesday 13 February next year - the Regulations and guidance will be revised as necessary before being put into place.

Separate consultations on the Scottish and Northern Irish equivalents will take place shortly. The Government intends to ratify the Convention next Spring.