THE Government must fulfil its commitment to adults living with autism, by supporting the development of an effective Adult Autism Strategy, says a Gwent MP.

Don Touhig is trying to raise awareness about the effects of autism and those living with the condition, and his latest move is to table an early day motion (EDM) in the House of Commons.

The Islwyn MP's EDM will call on the Government to fulfil its commitment to the Adult Autism Strategy, which will seek to maximise opportunities for people living with autism, and which has been subject to wide-ranging consultation.

Mr Touhig has backed the National Autistic Society’s Don’t Write Me Off campaign, following that up this month by asking a series of questions of the Government, regarding job opportunities for people with autism.

"Like everyone else, people with autism deserve to reach their full potential," said Mr Touhig.

"The Adult Autism Strategy can improve the lives of so many people, so that is why I have tabled this early day motion. I am determined to do all I can to raise awareness about the issues surrounding autism.

The strategy, launched in 2008, pledges to develop services to enable people with autism to live life as full and equal citizens. Proposals include:

* Better support for those developing autism services and for those working with people with autism;

* Research to establish how many people have an autistic spectrum disorder;

* Research into how people with autism cope with the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Improvement of access to health and social care services, long term jobs, transport and housing are key aims.

Estimates of how many people have an autistic spectrum disorder vary, though it could be up to 700,000.