§ Mrs. EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many children below the age of five years were diagnosed as being autistic in each year since 1970. [56975]
§ Mr. HuttonInformation about the number of children below the age of five years diagnosed as being autistic is not held centrally. It is for the local statutory authorities to determine the needs of children with autism in their area and work together effectively to ensure that these needs are met.