HC Deb 02 May 1991 vol 190 cc280-1W
Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has for public consultation on his second phase of the review of the all-Wales strategy for the development of services for people with a mental handicap; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Nicholas Bennett

We intend to publish shortly outline proposals for the future development of services for people with mental handicaps in Wales. There will be a period of public consultation on them until the late summer, including discussions with each county planning team during June and July. We will very much welcome comments from service users and their families and all others with an interest.

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the timetable for the review of the all-Wales strategy for his development of services for people with a mental handicap.

Mr. Nicholas Bennett

The formal review of the all-Wales strategy for the development of services for people with mental handicaps was launched on 26 November 1990, and comments were invited by 22 February 1991. Almost 120 written responses were received, and we are currently considering how the strategy might be taken forward beyond the original 10 years, which will end in March 1993.

The second round of public consultation, following the publication shortly of our outline proposals, will last until the late summer. We intend to make a final announcement about the arrangements for further development of services before the end of the year.