HC Deb 19 July 1972 vol 841 cc604-5
21. Mr. Clinton Davis

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications what is the average waiting period for the installation of a telephone for a physically handicapped person, following a request for such installation by a local authority.

Sir J. Eden

This is a matter for the Post Office which tells me that this information is not available.

Mr. Davis

Will the Minister indicate why the information is not available? Is no research done into the matter? Is he not aware that this is a very real need for handicapped people and that further information should be made available to the House? Some councils, such as Richmond, show a grotesque indifference to the needs of the handicapped, whereas my council in Hackney has provided 150 such telephones.

Sir J. Eden

The information is not available because applicants are not asked for information about their personal circumstances. If those circumstances are brought to the attention of the Post Office I know that it will give them the most sympathetic consideration.

Mr. Marten

Cannot the Post Office provide a sentence on the application form asking people who are disabled to indicate the fact with a cross? Will my right hon. Friend suggest that to the Post Office?

Sir J. Eden

I will draw the suggestion to the attention of the Post Office.

Mr. Golding

These applications are different from those of normal subscribers in that bills are paid by the local authority under the provisions of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act. Surely statistics could be compiled of the time taken to provide these people with the service.

Sir J. Eden

The local authority function is slightly different. Local authorities have a duty to provide telephones and any necessary special equipment for handicapped persons who are eligible under Section 2(1)(h) of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act, 1970, but the Question refers to the generality of applications.

Sir R. Cary

Two or three times I have had occasion to apply for the installation of a telephone for disabled persons and I have been grateful for the promptitude with which the staff has been able to help.

Sir J. Eden

I am grateful for what my hon. Friend has said.