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Bosworth's alternative therapy-loving MP has been blasted by an autism expert for claiming homeopathy can cure the condition.

Tory David Tredinnick spoke out during a House of Commons debate on the revised statutory care guidance for adult autism aimed at councils and the NHS.

While fellow MPs were discussing the compulsory detention of people with autism and calling for the new guidance to be “clear”, Mr Tredinnick told the health minister the NHS should make more use of homeopathy.

He said: “Is my right Hon. Friend aware that there is clear evidence that homeopathy is effective in treating autism, especially when doctors have not found a solution? Now that the Society of Homeopaths is regulated by the Professional Standards Authority, will he make more use of homeopathy in the health service generally, and in this particular instance?”

While the Speaker made a point about the question being off the mark, he allowed a reply and the minister said he would be happy to be sent the information “...but I make the general point that it is always important for us to base our decisions and expenditure on evidence”.

The comment was the latest in a long line of attempts by the MP to raise the profile of complementary medicine in the Commons for which he has been widely derided by medics and scientists.

He has highlighted homeopathy as a solution to everything from the current accident and emergency overload crisis to antibiotic resistance. He has also advocated the use of astrology within the NHS.

His words have angered Sapcote mum Ruth Howard, whose son Billy is autistic and who is studying for a PhD in positive psychology and autism.

She said such statements did nothing to further awareness into what remains a much misunderstood condition.

And she added: “This MP has shown himself to be not only ignorant of the significant issues people and families face but also adds to the myths and misunderstandings surrounding autism.

“He appears to have little understanding of how people with autism are supported and of autism itself.

“Autism is a lifelong developmental condition and subsequently, children and adults will be supported by a range of professionals, such as speech and language therapists, educationalists and psychologists.

“Medical doctors do not ‘treat’ autism, as it is not a medical condition.”

The trainer, coach and consultant who specialises in autism and positive psychology said she was not aware of any scientific evidence to say homoeopathy was beneficial for people with a diagnosis of autism.

“There are many so-called ‘treatments’ that claim to ‘treat’ or ‘cure’ autism which have little scientific basis and cost families significant amounts of time, money and emotional energy.

“We do know that early intervention and support can help children to overcome difficulties and reach their potential.

“One has to ask oneself what his agenda was as it appears to have little value to the debate or to people with autism.”