Written question asked by Lord Taylor of Holbeach (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Thornton (Labour) on Thursday, 11 March 2010.

Health: Autism

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government how many health professionals working in primary care are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of autism; and whether they plan to increase that number.

Answer: The number of consultant posts dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of autism is not held centrally, nor is the number of healthcare professionals trained in the diagnosis and treatment of autism. We believe it is essential that autism awareness training is available to everyone working in health or social care. Actions in the autism strategy include a programme to develop training with health and social care professional bodies (backed by £500,000 investment). However, we do not set specific targets for how many people should be trained by when.

Secondary information