§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what progress has been made in addressing the issues raised in the report of the Welsh Office Social Services Inspectorate in August 1998 on the problems of Disability Wales; and what plans he has for the future funding of Disability Wales. [63149]
Mr. Jon Owen JonesThe final report of the Management Review of Disability Wales was published on 19 November and I have sent a copy to the right hon. Member. I am now awaiting a formal response to the report from the Trustees of Disability Wales.
The Government have a very positive agenda for disabled people, including the establishment of a Disability Right Commission. It is therefore essential that Disability Wales can play a strong and cohesive role during this important period. I hope that the report's recommendations will provide a sound foundation from which the organisation can develop. Welsh Office funding for Disability Wales is secured until 31 March 1999 and I will consider funding for the 1999–2000 financial year in the light of the response from the Trustees to the report by the Social Services Inspectorate for Wales.