§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the services available to(a) children and (b) adults with autism; and what plans he has to enhance these services. [9253]
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Lord James Douglas HamiltonLocal social work, education and health authorities are responsible for determining and responding to the social, educational and health care needs of children with autism. The Scottish Office has commissioned a research project on the incidence of autism among children in Scotland and the current education provision for autistic pupils. The project will draw on experience through the UK in considering which types of educational approaches are most appropriate for children with autism. With regard to adults with autism, under the community care arrangements, local authority social work departments, in conjunction with health and housing authorities, are responsible for assessing the requirement for care services to meet the needs of vulnerable adults living in the community. Local authorities are well funded to meet these responsibilities and must establish their priorities for service development and resource allocation in response to local circumstances.