§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Prime Minister what new measures the Government are taking to promote the aims of the International Year of Disabled People.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Government have made it clear that they support the aims of the International Year, and Ministers will be taking every opportunity to influence public attitudes to disabled people and to encourage their integration and participation in the community.
Achievement of the aims of the Year is part of a continuing process. Much is already being done by public services and voluntary bodies, and the Year provides a special opportunity to take stock, to consider how present 8W support and services can be improved and to plan for their long-term extension as resources become available. Special initiatives will be planned to fit within this framework.
For information about activities already planned by individual Departments, I would refer the right hon. Member to the replies being given by my right hon. and hon. Friends today to a series of questions from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Wythenshawe (Mr. Morris). Other activities will be announced during the Year as arrangements are completed.