§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the events organised by, or with the co-operation of, his Department for the European Year of Older People; what arrangements he has made for informing and involving hon. Members of events for the year; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StewartMy Department is participating fully with other Government Departments and voluntary organisations to plan and promote a wide-ranging programme of584W events for the European Year of Older People and Solidarity between Generations. The programme of events for the Year is relevant to all parts of the United Kingdom. Events being developed as part of the Scottish contribution to the year include a three year project to support volunteering by older people and a project to examine the experiences of ethnic minority older people in selected European Community countries. I will write to the hon. Member with a full list of events which have been organised so far.
Officials of the Department of Health, the lead organising Department for the Year, recently met with the all party parliamentary group for pensions. In addition honourable Members will be able to learn more about the European Year of Older People from an exhibition to be mounted in the Upper Waiting Hall from 22 to 28 February. Madam Speaker has graciously agreed at the request of the all party group to host a reception on 30 June at the Speaker's House to mark the Year.
Age Concern Scotland has written to all Scottish hon. Members to inform them of the exhibition and to encourage them to support the year. A similar letter will be issued to all other hon. Members shortly.