HC Deb 27 July 1967 vol 751 cc949-50
10. Mr. Emery

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he is taking to ensure that money is available to universities and colleges of further education to pay for extra equipment required by disabled students.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

The allocation of funds for this purpose is a matter for the authorities concerned with the educational institutions. I know that both universities and local education authorities have the needs of the disabled student very much in mind.

Mr. Emery

Has not a number of cases been drawn to the hon. Gentleman's attention of disabled people, particularly in wheel chairs, being unable to use certain universities? Would he consider allocating specially a sum for distribution either by the University Grants Committee or by another body, which might be applied for specifically by disabled students?

Mr. Roberts

I certainly take note of what the hon. Gentleman says. I have seen one or two examples of difficulty for disabled pupils and students, but I think that, in almost every case, their requirements have been succesfully met. I will certainly take cognisance of his second point.