§ Mr. RandallTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on the progress of the disability rights task force. [34060]
§ Mr. Alan HowarthThe Disability Rights Task Force has made good progress since its membership was announced on 3 December 1997. It has met three times, on 16 December 1997, 21 January 1998 and 16 March 1998. In line with its Terms of Reference it has been considering in detail the role and functions of a Disability Rights Commission. The Task Force is expected to make recommendations to the Government on this matter by the end of March. Task Force papers and minutes have been placed on the Internet at http:/www.disability.gov.uk for public access and comments may be returned to the Task Force Secretariat.