§ Mr. Tom Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he proposes to make commencement orders to bring into force the various provisions of the Disabled Persons (Services, Consultation and Representation) Act 1986; if he proposes to issue a circular to local authorities regarding his intentions in this respect; if he will issue a document summarising for the benefit of the public the provisions of the Act, with particular reference to the new rights for the disabled created by this Act; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonI regret that I cannot at present add to what I said about the timing of implementation of the various provisions during the course of the House's consideration of amendments from another place on 4 July 1986. As I then indicated we hope, subject to consulting with local authority associations, to bring certain provisions into efffect by April 1987. Those discussions will also cover the question of what guidance might be appropriate and we will at the same time consider what steps might be appropriate to publicise the relevant provisions as they come into effect.