HC Deb 17 July 1973 vol 860 cc59-60W
36. Mr. Marten

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he now expects to receive the Sharp report on vehicles for the disabled.

37. Mr. James Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he now expects to receive the Baroness Sharp report to be presented to the House.

Mr. Alison

I have nothing to add to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Banbury (Mr. Marten) on 19th June.

46. Mr. Clinton Davis

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the dangers of three-wheeled invalid cars which are manufactured in accordance with Government specifications consequent upon the dossier compiled by the Disabled Drivers' Action Group, a copy of which has been supplied to him.

Mr. Alison

I have not yet received the dossier but can give an assurance that the accident record of these vehicles, over many years, has been good and, provided they are driven reasonably, within the performance limits that can be expected from a vehicle of this type, and with due regard to the prevailing traffic and weather conditions, they are safe.

51. Mr. Hamling

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations have been made to him about the new invalid tricycle; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Alison

We have received expressions of gratitude and adverse criticisms, the latter frequently associated with a declared preference for a family car.

55. Mr. Kelley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take action to withdraw from use on the roads Government-issued three-wheeled vehicles for disabled drivers in the light of hazards inherent in these vehicles as revealed in recent tests.

Mr. Alison

No. There are hazards associated with all road vehicles, and the fact is that the accident record of these vehicles does not support the allegation that the three-wheelers issued to disabled people are more hazardous than others.

Mr. Cronin

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will arrange for invalid vehicles to undergo the standard Ministry of Transport test annually instead of being tested by his own Department.

Mr. Alison

No. There would be no advantage in the proposed change. These vehicles, which are maintained entirely at State expense, are already subject to an adequate programme of preventive maintenance. They are serviced, repaired and road tested several times a year by specialist repairers and are inspected regularly by the Department's own technical staff.