HC Deb 24 May 1976 vol 912 cc75-6W
Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he expects there to be an increase in the number of places in adult training centres and sheltered workshops in Ormskirk.

Dr. Owen

It is for the Lancashire County Council to decide its priorities within the resources available for it and subject to any necessary loan approvals.

My right hon. Friend has proposed to local authorities that the first priority in the mental handicap field should include growth of training centre places. I understand that the county council has proposals for a large new adult training centre to remedy the shortage of provision in West Lancashire but that at present they do not expect funds to be available for several years.

The provision of sheltered workshops is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment. I understand that while he has no plans to provide a sheltered workshop in Ormskirk the situation in the area is being kept under review.