In reaching any decision relating to a child in their care, a local authority shall give first consideration to the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child throughout his childhood; and shall so far as practicable ascertain the wishes and feelings of the child regarding the decision and give due consideration to them, having regard to his age and understanding.

In providing for a child in their care a local authority shall make such use of facilities and services available for children in the care of their own parents as appears to the local authority reasonable in his case.

If it appears to the local authority that it is necessary, for the purpose of protecting members of the public, to exercise their powers in relation to a particular child in their care in a manner which may not be consistent with their duty under subsection (1) above, the authority may, notwithstanding that duty, act in that manner.