§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if she will review funding to ensure provision for autistic children; and if she will make a statement. [20877]
§ Mrs. GillanThe assessment of autistic children and the identification of a suitable school for them is the responsibility of the local education authority in whose area they live. It is for LEAs to decide how best to use their financial resources in order to carry out statutory duties such as these in the light of local needs and priorities.
The Department is, however, funding a series of joint seminars, to be organised by the National Autistic Society and the Society of Education Officers, which will draw attention to the implications of autism for LEAs.