§ Mr. Tom ClarkeTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had with manufacturers of computer hardware to make equipment more accessible to disabled people; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LeighNo discussions for this specific purpose have taken place since the end of the Concerned Technology campaign in 1989. Concerned Technology was part of the Department's programme to raise general awareness of information technology. The general awareness programme has now ended, and the Department's efforts are directed towards the broader needs of business and commerce through promotion of the use of information technology in accordance with best practice and through support for basic research to strengthen industry's technological capability. My Department's role in serving the interests of disabled people is through encouragement of the develolpment and use of basic technologies which will improve the capabilities and adaptability of all products that utilise them. It is now for those in the industry to respond to demands expressed by the disabled and caring agencies when designing their products.
The Employment Department is responsible for a range of special aids, including special computer equipment, to help the disabled to obtain and keep employment.