§ 32. Mr. JamiesonTo ask the right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed, representing the House of Commons Commission, if he will make financial provision available to improve facilities for disabled visitors to the House of Commons.
§ Mr. BeithFollowing a report by an architect specialising in this subject, £250,000 was allocated for works in 1994–95. The Accommodation and Works Committee has approved an initial programme to improve facilities for disabled visitors and will examine further schemes contained in the report. Financial provision for future years has yet to be considered by the Finance and Services Committee and by the Commission.
§ Mr. JamiesonDoes the right hon. Gentleman accept that access for disabled people to the House of Commons is extremely limited? Given the widespread cross-party support for the Civil Rights (Disabled Persons) Bill, which is progressing through the House, would not it be ironic if the House itself remained so inaccessible to disabled people? Will he ensure that proper funds are available to make the House a model of accessibility for disabled people?
§ Mr. BeithYes, that is the objective of the Commission and the purpose of the report and proposals that we have been considering.