§ Ms ShipleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what decision he has made on the future of the National Advisory Council on Employment of People with Disabilities; and if he will make a statement. [9138]
§ Mr. Alan HowarthThe Government is committed to introducing comprehensive and enforceable civil rights for disabled people against discrimination. Employment and training issues will form an important part of this. The National Advisory Council on Employment of People with Disabilities (NACEPD) has provided advice on matters concerning the employment and training of disabled people for a number of years and I want it to continue to do so whilst the Government develops its proposals for the future. I have, therefore, extended to 31 March 1998 NACEPD's term of office and am pleased that most members have been able to accept the extension of their appointments.