HC Deb 07 February 1984 vol 53 cc527-8W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will arrange to issue annual reports on provisions of telecommunications for the disabled; if he will see to it that the annual report gives details of provisions for the disabled as well as developments which are taking place for the disabled; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Butcher

Under the Telecommunications Bill, the Director General of Telecommunications will keep under review and collect information about telecommunications with a view to his becoming aware of matters in respect of which he has responsibilities. These include promoting the interests of disabled users of telecommunications. He will also be under a duty to include a general survey of developments in telecommunications in his annual report. However, the Government are prepared to consider amendments to the Bill imposing a requirement on the Director to report specifically on matters affecting the disabled.