The girl may now be placed in secure care

The girl, who is in care in Blackburn, has been reported missing overnight on 14 occasions since 30 July.

Claims that she had been working as a prostitute were made when she appeared at youth court on Monday accused of threatening behaviour.

It is known that police were seeking an urgent meeting with Blackburn with Darwen social services on Wednesday to discuss putting her in secure care.

A Blackburn with Darwen Council spokeswoman said the girl was currently free to come and go at her current care home.

Stephen Sloss, director of social services, said: "[We are] continuing to liaise closely with the other agencies involved in the care and protection of this girl - including her family - to ensure that her well-being remains paramount.

"It is neither appropriate nor responsible to discuss her personal circumstances in detail in the public arena.

"Suffice it to say that each of the agencies involved in her care has a responsibility to work together in her best interests to provide her with the care and stability that she needs at this time."