§ 8. Mr. James Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied with the way in which local authorities are implementing the appropriate provisions of the Social Work (Scotland) Act with regard to the provision of telephones for the disabled; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. Edward TaylorAs far as I am aware local authorities are giving careful consideration to any applications they receive from disabled persons for the provision of a telephone. My right hon. Friend intends, however, to refer to this subject in a circular to local authorities about services for the disabled.
§ Mr. HamiltonI thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply. Is he aware that the Secretary of State for Scotland gave an assurance to my hon. Friend the Member for Manchester, Wythenshawe (Mr. Alfred Morris) that he would personally ensure that local authorities would implement this part of the Act? Can he tell me whether this has been done?
Mr. TaylorIt is quite clear that local authorities have the statutory power and it is for them to consider individual cases. However, as I say, my right hon. Friend intends to refer to this subject in a circular which will shortly be issued.