The All Party Parliamentary Group On Autism

This is a guest post by Paul Burgin, who usually blogs at Mars Hill. Thanks to Paul.

One of the most common accusations hurled at politicians is that they are out of touch. In some cases that is a fair and true accusation, but there are times when, quietly and behind the scenes, we see evidence to the contrary.

One piece of evidence involves some of the All-Party Parliamentary Groups within the House of Commons and it is one of those, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Autism, that I want to bring to your attention.

APPGA, as it is known, was set up in 2000 and deals with all aspects of the Autism spectrum, including Asperger’s Syndrome. It lists it’s official objectives as:

“To raise awareness of issues affecting people with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, their families and carers; to raise Parliamentary awareness of Autism; to campaign for changes to government policy to benefit people with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome and improve diagnosis or support for people with Autism and Asperger’s syndrome.”
As an All-Party committee it has no legislative powers, but it’s potential lies in the fact that it is a good springboard of influence, not only on the government, but also on individual MP’s, which is vital with regards to situations such as the raising of Private Members’ Bills, where an MP, if he or she has enough support, can bring forward a Bill to Parliament.

Autism and other such conditions, whilst increasingly known, are not fully understood by many people. Groups like this can make a difference behind the scenes and it is up to the likes of you and me to help and give our support where possible.

Plus it’s a good sign that politicians have their noble side.