Autism sufferers across Wales will feel “let down” by the Welsh Government – South Wales Central AM Andrew RT Davies has said.

There have long been calls for legislation guaranteeing autism sufferers rights and support – and a Welsh Conservative Autism Bill is currently progressing through the Assembly.

While the Welsh Labour Government have allowed their backbench members a free vote on the Bill – they have not indicated Ministers will support it.

Mr Davies – who has recently visited several organisations calling for better support for autism sufferers – said the situation was “bitterly disappointing” and urged Ministers to give the Bill their “wholehearted backing”.

Mr Davies said, “I have been contacted by many constituents affected by autism – emphasising the importance of obtaining statutory support.

“If it becomes law – the Autism Bill would deliver these rights – so it is vital it gets Welsh Government backing.

“Disappointingly - when the Bill came before the Assembly this week – the Welsh Government indicated that while backbenchers will have a free vote – Ministers would not be free to support it.

“I have recently visited many organisations – including the Autism Directory in Treforest and Vale People First in Barry – who made it quite clear they need more help from those in power.

“An Autism Act for Wales would deliver this – so the Welsh Government must sit up, take notice and give autism sufferers the support they need.”

ENDS