Articles and Speeches

Backing the Autism Bill
10-Apr-09, Bracknell News

‘With people close to me, as well as hundreds of constituents affected, I have long been deeply concerned about autism.

Last week in Parliament I was delighted to have a cup of tea with two constituents who have an autistic son.  They had come to raise awareness about the condition and we had a lot to talk about.

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of visiting Heathermount Learning Centre in Ascot.  The Centre provides learning opportunities for around 60 young people with higher functioning autism and Asperger syndrome.  Staff at the Centre deliver the National Curriculum, alongside vocational training and practical work experience.  This helps to equip pupils with the social skills they need to find work and play an active role in society.

Visiting and supporting organisations like this is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job.  I was immensely impressed by both the building itself and the staff I met there, who are dedicated to providing a better quality of life for those with autism.

As the issue is one I feel so strongly about, on Friday 27^th February I took the unusual step of postponing appointments in Windsor to stay behind in the Commons and vote on the Autism Bill going through Parliament.  It aims to combat the deficiencies of autism service provision and improve the information available about young people with autism. 

Fortunately the Bill passed with a majority of 106, despite the Government fighting against it.

I am proud to have backed this private members bill because it will make a real difference to the quality of life of people affected by the condition.’