§ 13. Mr. Michael J. MartinTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement regarding the future financing of blind and disabled workshops.
Mr. Stewart: As indicated when I met the hon. Gentleman and delegates from Blindcraft, the National League for the Blind and Disabled and Strathclyde social work department recently, the Local Government etc. (Scotland) Bill includes provision for the transfer of property, assets, liabilities and obligations to the relevant successor authority. We propose that any obligations which a local authority has in respect of workshops for blind and disabled people will be transferred to the appropriate new authority from 1 April 1996.
§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of ENABLE to discuss issues affecting disabled people; when he next plans to meet them; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Stewart[holding answer 1 July 1994]: Scottish Office officials met representatives of ENABLE to discuss a range of issues in September 1993. My noble and learned Friend the Minister of State expects to meet an all-party group on disability and disablement in the next few weeks.