Further to the answer to question S1W-30228 by Malcolm Chisholm on 17 October 2002, whether the Medical Research Council research projects …

The steering group on autism will guide the implementation of a strategy for research in line with the recommendations of the Medical Research Council (MRC) Autism Review. A key element of this review was the dialogue with stakeholders, including consumers. This process will continue and is reflected in the terms of reference for the steering group which include "to facilitate consumer involvement in taking forward this strategy and in the dissemination of research findings". As part of this process, the MRC will hold a meeting in April 2003 which will involve parents, carers and scientists, and will be organised jointly with the National Autistic Society. The steering group itself includes two lay people, one of whom is the parent of sons with autism. The steering group will continue to seek advice from all relevant stakeholders.