§ Mr. WillisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what provision(a) has been made and (b) will be made to enable children with anaphylaxis to participate in out-of-school activities; what work (i) has and (ii) will be undertaken with the Department of Health to ensure that such children are given the right to partake in such activities; and if the matter will be referred to the Cabinet Committee on children and young people.[8449]
§ Mr. TimmsMy Department has produced good practice guidance, "Health and Safety of Pupils on Educational Visits (1998)"; "Safe Keeping—A good practice guide for health and safety in study support settings (2000)"; and a joint good practice guide with the 41W Department of Health "Supporting Pupils with Medical Needs (1996)", all of which include advice to schools on including pupils with medical needs in out-of-school activities. The joint DFES and Department of Health website www.wiredforhealth.gov.uk also carries advice on problems relating to anaphylaxis. The Special Education Needs and Disability Act 2001 will bring access to education within the remit of the Disability Discrimination Act and will outlaw discrimination against disabled pupils or prospective pupils from September 2002. Out-of-school activities will be covered by the Act. One of the Government's children services objectives is to increase the number of disabled children who use inclusive play and leisure services, with appropriate support if necessary. It is standard practice not to comment on the proceedings of Cabinet Committees.