HC Deb 03 March 1971 vol 812 cc1702-3
35. Mr. Hardy

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will arrange for blind persons to be allowed normal access to the Central Lobby when accompanied by guide dogs.

The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. William Whitelaw)

This is a question which has been gone into carefully on a number of occasions. In so complex a building it has been found better for the blind person to be personally escorted to wherever he or she wishes to go. I can assure the hon. Member that the dogs are very well cared for.

Mr. Hardy

While I accept that the present arrangements appear to be extremely satisfactory and possibly admirable during the busier periods, would not it be possible for access to be allowed to the Central Lobby in quieter times? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these dogs are exceptionally well-trained and that any concession allowed in this building would have an encouraging effect in the country?

Mr. Whitelaw

This matter can be looked into. As I think the hon. Gentleman appreciates, the views of the public relations officer and the director of training of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Organisation have been sought. Both of them believe that our present procedure is the best. However, we are perfectly prepared to look at it again if necessary.