By politics.co.uk staff

Cheryl Gillan’s autism bill got sent upstairs to committee today, moving a step closer to becoming law.

The bill aims to improve recognition of children and adults with autism and to ensure their needs are addressed – especially during the crucial transition from childhood to adulthood.

The crucial moment came when an attempt to close down the debate was defeated by 131 votes to 25. The vote passing it at second reading stage was won without a formal division.

John Baron, who voted in favour of the bill, said: “Too many children and adults with autism are currently falling through the gaps and too many local authorities are failing to include their needs in the planning of services.

“This bill will hopefully put that right by placing a duty on councils to recognise the needs of people with autism and promote services to support them. It will be the first law of its kind.”