§ Mr. GalbraithTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his Department's policy regarding residential and village communities for people with learning disabilities; what research he has commissioned to evaluate such facilities; and if he will make a statement. [34826]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonResidential and village communities are one of a range of residential options available for people with learning disabilities. Decisions on which of these is most appropriate should be taken on an individual basis. However, we await with interest the results of an evaluation of the various types of residential accommodation for people with learning disabilities which has been commissioned by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health.