§ Mr. Tom Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he proposes to make commencement orders to bring into force the various provisions of the Disabled Persons (Services, Consultation and Representation) Act 1986 for which he is responsible; if he proposes to issue a circular to local authorities regarding his intentions in this respect; if he will issue a document summarising for the benefit of the public the provisions of the Act, with particular reference to the new rights for the disabled created by the Act; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayAs indicated by my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Industry and Education when the House considered Lords amendments, we shall reach a view on implementation of the provisions in the light of consultations with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities and other relevant factors.
My right hon. and learned Friend has no plans to issue a circular solely on commencement of these provisions: the nature and timing of guidance to local authorities and others on the Act as a whole is currently being considered by the Scottish Education Department. My right hon. and learned Friend also has no plans to present general publicity about the Act; such publicity would in any case not be appropriate in advance of provisions being commenced.