§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the toilet provisions made by all forms of transport organisation in the United Kingdom for disabled passengers; if he is satisfied that adequate provision is made when new premises are built; if his Department will conduct an investigation into the provision of such facilities; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EyreI have been asked to reply.
Section 4 of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 stipulates that anyone providing premises to which there is public access shall, so far as is reasonable and practicable, provide for the needs of the disabled in any lavatories in the building. Available information does not suggest that, in general, public transport undertakings are failing to observe this part of the Act and I understand that British Rail take account of the needs of the disabled when major works are carried out on existing buildings. I do not think a special investigation is called for but if the hon. Member has any particular case in mind perhaps he would write to me.