The inquiry, which aims to study where under-18s should fit into society and how society should regard them, will be led by a panel of 12 experts, chaired by Lord Layard, emeritus professor of economics at the London School of Economics. It will include Sir Al Aynsley-Green, children's commissioner for England, and Bishop Tim Stevens, chair of The Children's Society's board of trustees. A support group will include young people on its secretariat.
The first meeting will take place in early 2007, following a call for evidence in September 2006. A report will be published in 2008.
Bob Reitemeier, chief executive of The Children's Society, said: "The inquiry is trying to supplement the Every Child Matters outcomes framework." Funding comes from The Children's Society, although it is looking for further funding.
