This House of Library Briefing provides background information on the World Autism Awareness Day which is observed annually on 2 April.
World Autism Awareness Day, 2 April 2018 (167 KB , PDF)
On 18 December 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 62/139, which designated 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day. The resolution invites all member states to observe World Autism Awareness Day in order to raise public awareness of autism.
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is the name for a range of conditions (including Asperger syndrome), which affect a person’s social interaction and communication. It is a lifelong development condition which can present itself in a spectrum of behaviours, including: difficulty with communication and social skills; repetitive behaviour; highly focused interests; and sensory sensitivity. It is estimated that globally 1 in 160 children have autism and that in the UK the condition affects approximately 1 percent of the population.
This Briefing summarises the condition, its prevalence in the UK, Government policy on the subject since 2010, and recent developments.
World Autism Awareness Day, 2 April 2018 (167 KB , PDF)
In October 2024, a report from the House of Lords Food, Diet and Obesity Committee concluded that poor-quality diets were contributing to an obesity crisis in England. It said that successive governments had failed to tackle the issue, and more regulation was now needed. This briefing summarises the committee’s recommendations, the government’s response in January 2025, and reaction to both reports.
On 9 March, the Covid-19 Day of Reflection 2025 took place to mark five years since the start of the pandemic in the UK. This briefing has been prepared ahead of a debate in the House of Lords focused on the support available to those bereaved because of Covid-19. It outlines the help available for families and sets out background information on the Covid-19 Day of Reflection, as well as the UK Covid-19 inquiry.
On 6 March 2025, the House of Lords is scheduled to hold a debate marking International Women’s Day focused on the steps being taken to promote women’s participation and leadership in science and technology. The motion for the debate is sponsored by Baroness Gustafsson, the government minister for investment. This briefing provides an overview of data and research in this area, as well as information on government policy.
