HC Deb 15 December 1997 vol 303 c60W
Sir Richard Body

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many adults diagnosed as autistic when children are in institutions funded by his Department. [20257]

Mr. Boateng

No places are directly funded by the Department of Health and no information is held centrally on the number of adults with autism in institutions. Health and local authorities are responsible for the provision and development of appropriate services in their areas in the light of Departmental guidance. The Department has also funded a number of projects to raise awareness of the needs of people with autism and to help develop good practice.