To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S1W-2384 by Susan Deacon on 19 November 1999, whether it will establish the number of multiple sclerosis sufferers in each health board area to enable resources to be matched to need, The SNAP report estimates that there are at present in Scotland some 10,400 people suffering from multiple sclerosis. There are no plans to launch a national survey to establish the number of cases at health board level.Health boards are expected to meet the health needs of people with MS in their areas from the funds made available to them by the Executive, based on their assessment of local needs.