§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how long on average it takes his Department to reply to letters from hon. Members; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangMy Department has set a target of replying to correspondence from hon. Members and others within 17 working days of receipt. During the period 1 August 1992 to 31 July 1993—the first year of operation of the target—11,279 items of such correspondence were dealt with. Fifty-five per cent. of these letters received a substantive reply within the 17 working day target, and 86 per cent. were answered within 30 working days. Replies may be delayed because it is necessary to gather information from various sources; in such cases, the normal procedure is for an interim reply to be issued.
§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has further to develop the concept of infobuses on the model of that provided by Renfrew District Disability Council; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonAs the provision of information on disability matters is the responsibility of local authorities, it is for these bodies to determine the level and nature of the service to be provided.