Disability Rights Commission

HC Deb 11 January 1999 vol 323 cc97-8W

Mrs. May

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will set out the basis of the estimated annual running cost of the proposed Disability Rights Commission. [65113]

Ms Hodge

The estimated budget for the Disability Rights Commission (DRC) was calculated by examining its proposed functions and assessing the associated costs using the best information available. This involved drawing on information about the running costs of the existing commissions where their functions are similar and taking account of issues arising specifically in the context of disability. We believe the estimate is realistic and reflects the important work the DRC will be expected to undertake. In due course, we will review the DRC's funding in the light of its operational experience.