To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to support (a) children and (b) adults with autism.

We are committed to fulfilling the requirements of the Autism Act 2009 with the aim of addressing the disadvantages that children, young people and adults with autism can experience.

We launched consultation on draft statutory guidance to support delivery of the autism strategy. The guidance for health and social care bodies will be available by the end of the year. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has been commissioned to produce new clinical guidelines for children and adults with autism. Details of the consultation are available at:

http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/Liveconsultations/DH_118058