HC Deb 23 May 2003 vol 406 c55W
Paul Holmes

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to list the measures his Department has taken to highlight the European Year of the Disabled Citizen; what projects have beer undertaken; what funding has been given to each project; and if he will make a statement. [114499]

Maria Eagle

We held high profile launch events across the UK in January 2003 and announced our intention to publish a draft disability Bill later this year. We are funding 171 local and regional projects to highlight the UK theme for the European Year, "Promoting Rights and Participation". A list has been placed in the Library.

An EU Bus promoting the European Year will tour the UK during June 2003 and will provide a focal point for a range of further activities. We are also running media campaigns to support the European Year and raise awareness about disability rights.