§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will re-establish direct Welsh Office funding for 277W advocacy schemes at Bryn Y Neuadd long-stay hospital for those with learning difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the future of the schemes. [16958]
§ Mr. HagueLocal authorities have for some time had flexibility in determining which local projects should receive funding under the Welsh mental handicap strategy. In 1997–98 we are beginning the process of transferring financial accountability for these funds to authorities. This underlines our view that decisions as to which projects for people with a learning disability should be supported from the funds available are best taken at the local level. This is not a principle with which I would now wish to interfere.