§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will introduce legislation to make it a condition that, whenever central Government grants are payable in connection with new public transport systems, the systems are accessible to handicapped travellers and that associated buildings conform with the provisions laid down in Section 4 of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970.
§ Mr. PeytonNo. Such a general rule would not be practicable.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment why his circular on access to public transport has still not been issued to transport operators and manufacturers; and when he expects to issue the circular.
§ Mr. PeytonI would refer the hon. Member to my answer of 16th July. A suitable circular has entailed extensive consultations.—[Vol. 860, c.36.]
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what trials and experiments are taking place regarding the problems experienced by the elderly and disabled in boarding and alighting from buses; what new designs are envisaged for grab rails; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PeytonThe Transport and Road Research Laboratory is supervising a preliminary study with a view to relevant improvements in bus design, but no conclusions have yet been reached.