§ Joan RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what discussion he has had with the rail regulator on the obligations to be placed on Railtrack and train operating companies regarding access to railway stations for people with disabilities when part III of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 takes effect; and if he will list them. [77158]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonMy Department keeps in close touch with the Rail Regulator on mobility issues generally, although we have had no specific discussions on these issues. In relation to station access, Railtrack and the train operating companies, are subject to the provisions of Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act in the same way as any other service provider.
From October 1999, they will have to take reasonable steps to change practices, policies or procedures which make it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled 578W people to use a service; provide auxiliary aids or services, for example induction loops or information in Braille, which would enable disabled people to use a service; and overcome physical barriers by providing a service by a reasonable alternative method.
From 2004, they will have to take reasonable steps to remove, alter, or provide reasonable means of avoiding physical features that make it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to use a service. For example, the provision of a ramp to allow wheelchair access into a station.
Railtrack and the train operating companies were informed about these requirements at a seminar organised by my Department and the DfEE at the end of last year.