§ Mr. CarmichaelTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions pursuant to the Answer of 17 September 2003,Official Reportcolumn 758W, on the Disability Handbook, when the Government will start a programme to revise the Disability Handbook; what plans the Government has to consult the National Autistic Society during this review; and when the Government anticipates this work will be completed. [136505]
§ Maria EagleThe Department is continuing to work on determining the final format for the information technology based guidance, which will eventually replace the Disability Handbook. The new guidance will be rolled out in phases. Detailed plans for its development and implementation have not yet been decided. Officials have already had meetings with the National Autistic Society and will take into consideration their comments on the current section in the Disability Handbook, in addition to information on the autistic spectrum disorder provided by them. The Department would welcome their comments on the revised draft guidance when developed.