§ Sir David Priceasked the hon. Member for Wokingham, as representing the Church Commissioners, whether the Church Commissioners have made any specific contributions to the International Year of Disabled People.
§ Sir William van StraubenzeeThe commissioners are very conscious of the needs of disabled people and they currently employ 11 on their staff. They are also, for example, giving active consideration to equipping telephones in their office with special aids to assist the deaf.
The commissioners have made no specific financial contribution to the International Year of Disabled People since they are not empowered to contribute to such charitable causes, however deserving; their statutory responsibilities being directed towards providing for the stipends, housing and pensions of the clergy.