§ Mr. AshleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is his policy on unaided access for physically disabled people to NHS facilities; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DorrellHealth authorities are required to comply with building regulations which contain requirements in respect of access for disabled people. From 1 April this year, building regulations will be legally enforceable on the NHS. In 1989, the Department published guidance on designing hospital facilities to meet the needs of disabled people which the NHS is encouraged to use and which exceeds the requirements of building regulations.
§ Mr. AshleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to increase unaided access to NHS facilities for physically disabled people.
§ Mr. DorrellThe national health service will be legally bound by the new standards in respect of access for422W disabled people which are soon to be introduced by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment.
§ Mr. AshleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will obtain for his departmental library a copy of the Royal College of Physicians' report on health services for adults with physical disabilities.
§ Mr. DorrellThe Department has received copies of the report and a copy will be placed in the Library. We welcome it as a timely contribution to the process of improving services for disabled people. It gives a clear picture of the present situation and will be a considerable help to those at all levels in the National Health Service who are concerned with the planning and operation of these services.