§ John CryerTo ask the Secretary of State for Health when he will publish an annual report under section 22 of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970. [4626]
§ Jacqui SmithMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health is publishing today the annual report for 1999–2000, and copies are being placed in the Library. The report covers research and development work carried out by (or on behalf of) Government Departments in relation to equipment that might increase the range of activities and independence or well-being of disabled people, and in particular such equipment that might improve their indoor and outdoor mobility.
The current report places such research in the context of the NHS Plan, and outlines the role of assistive technology in making independent living easier for older people and people with disabilities. The report describes the wide range of Government-funded projects supporting the development, introduction and evaluation of assistive technology. Relevant projects funded by the European Union are also listed.