The Minister for Children says she won't consider changing the law allowing teenage offenders to be held in police cells - despite ongoing calls to do so.
Latest figures this week revealed seven young offenders, including a 13-year-old, attempted to harm themselves or take their own lives in cells in the past five years.
Tracey Martin says police cells are not suitable for young offenders, but in some cases it's the only practical option available.
The minister told RNZ Youth Affairs Reporter Katie Doyle that cells are sometimes the safest place for young people.
