§ Mr. Leadbitterasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in his current review of the quota scheme for disabled persons, he has had any discussions with local authorities on the need to employ the required quota; what advice he has given; if he is satisfied with the response; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerI have been asked to reply.
No such discussions have taken place; nor has special advice been given to local authorities on this matter, as they have the same legal obligations as other employers. Comprehensive records about compliance by local authorities are not maintained centrally. It is accordingly not possible to express a general view as to how far they are fulfilling their obligations.