HL Deb 24 July 1973 vol 344 cc1658-9

3.9 p.m.

THE CHAIRMAN OF COMMITTEES (THE EARL OF LISTOWEL)

My Lords, I beg to move that this Bill be now read a third time.

Moved, That the Bill be now read 3ª, —(The Earl of Listowel.)

LORD SOMERS

My Lords, I do not wish to protest against the Third Reading, but I want to make a few remarks In fact, I had hoped to put down an Amendment, but I was informed about this matter too late to do so. I want to ask the noble Earl the Lord Chairman whether it would be possible to put some pressure on the Executive to provide lifts, not less than one, at each access to the railway so that disabled persons will be able to have easy access. Of course, this is a matter which applies to all public transport, but there is no doubt that it a new railway is to be built it might be a good plan to say that not less than one lift at each station shall be provided for those who, for instance, are in wheelchairs and cannot use escalators or go down the stairs Therefore, I am asking the Lord Chairman whether it would be possible to put some pressure on the executive to see that that is done

LORD MOYNE

My Lords, I should like to support my noble friend's remarks. I would, however, suggest that there should also be considered the possibility of installing lifts at selected stations. It may be too expensive to put them in all stations. I think the second alternative should be looked at of putting them at key points for the benefit of the elderly and infirm.

THE EARL OF LISTOWEL

My Lords, I will certainly draw the attention of the Promoters to the remarks of both noble Lords, and I am sure they will give them careful consideration.

On Question, Bill read 3a, with the Amendments, and passed, and returned to the Commons.