§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has made with regard to improving access to shops for disabled people and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Alfred MorrisThere has been growing understanding among individual retailers of the importance of making their premises accessible to disabled people. In support of the campaign of the Silver Jubilee Committee on Improving Access for Disabled People, which I set up last year, I recently suggested to the Retail Consortium a number of specific steps which retailers might be encouraged to take to facilitate shopping by disabled people. The consortium's initial response has been extremely positive and encouraging. It has arranged for my proposals to be considered in detail by retail trade associations and has also made certain very helpful suggestions itself.
In acknowledgement of my hon. Friend's keen interest in this matter, both personally and as chairman of the all-party disablement group, I am sending him copies of the correspondence.
§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations his Department has made to Mecca Limited about the exclusion of disabled people from its dance halls; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisMy Department has been in contact with Mecca Limited on several occasions. This contact has arisen from a number of cases where disabled people have made specific allegations of discrimination. Strong representations about the effect of the company's policies have also been made to the Silver Jubilee Committee on Improving Access for the Disabled. I have recently corresponded with the chairman of the company about the humiliation and frustration experienced by disabled people who are subject to unreasonable limitations on their freedom of action. He is now fully aware of my views. I shall be continuing to do all I possibly can to persuade organisations providing social facilities of all kinds to allow equal access for disabled people.