§ Mr. Fortescueasked the Minister of Health (1) whether he is satisfied with the present method of disposal of the specially equipped four-wheeled cars issued to certain handicapped persons and returned to his Department when no longer required by the individuals concerned; and if he will make a statement;
(2) whether he is aware that it is the practice of those who buy at auction the specially equipped four-wheeled cars, returned to his Department after use by one handicapped person in each case, to remove the special controls and resell the cars to non-handicapped persons; and whether he will take action to ensure that such cars with their special equipment are retained for the use of the handicapped.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonYes. A Ministry car no longer required by one disabled person is reconditioned and re-issued to another eligible disabled person unless this is uneconomical; in which case it is sold by public auction in accordance with normal policy for the disposal of surplus Government equipment.
I do not consider that it would be appropriate for me to seek to influence the use of the vehicle after it is sold.