§ 12. Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to improve transport provision for people with disabilities.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe Department of Transport is working closely with the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee, transport providers and local authorities on a continuing programme of initiatives to improve transport for people with disabilities through research, information, promotion and education.
§ Mr. FearnIs the Minister satisfied that facilities for the disabled are now correct on all deregulated routes? In other words, are the deregulated routes providing what we need?
§ Mr. BottomleyI am not satisfied, and that is why I spent Saturday with Sir Harry Secombe in Swansea launching a bus that had been converted at reasonably low cost to provide substantial additional benefits for the frail, the disabled and the elderly. The hon. Gentleman will be glad to know that I was offered the part of second tenor in the Gwalia choir after we sang "We'll keep a welcome in the hillsides".