§ Mr. SillarsTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what representations he has received from the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities about the 627W failure to expand the number of sheltered placements schemes; what assurances the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities has sought about future policy; and what replies he has sent.
Mr. JacksonMy right hon. and learned Friend has received a copy of a letter from the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities on this issue, and a reply will be sent shortly. A further letter has been received by the Employment Service's assistant resettlement adviser for Scotland. The convention has sought the assistance of the Department in ensuring that the sheltered placement scheme expands wherever desirable in the interests of the employment of people with disabilities. The Government remain committed to the scheme.