HC Deb 21 March 1978 vol 946 cc514-5W
Mr. Wrigglesworth

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the orange badge scheme.

Mr. William Rodgers

The orange badge scheme, under which certain classes of disabled persons and the blind receive parking concessions, is of great value. In order that it shall retain its helpfulness to those who are genuinely entitled to its benefits, a standard form of medical certificate has been devised to be used when applying for a badge. The Health Departments for England and Wales are asking local authorities to recommend doctors to use it. This certificate will set out the basis of entitlement in such a way that the medical practitioner will have a ready reminder of the criteria before him on each occasion the form is used. I understand that the Scottish Office is currently considering what steps need to be taken to give effect to this change in Scotland.

In consultation with my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Security who has special responsibility for the disabled, I am also arranging for the advisory leaflet on the orange badge scheme to be revised, so as to assist understanding of its basis and its operation.