To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland for what reason his Department has decided not to support the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Association hitherto; and when such support will be forthcoming.

The application from the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Association was one of a number which were rejected for 1988–89 on grounds that the resources available for payment of grants under section 10 of the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 were oversubscribed. If a further application is made for assistance in 1989–90, it will be carefully considered.