HC Deb 21 October 1992 vol 212 cc297-8W
Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many members of staff employed by his Department currently specialise on electoral issues: of those staff members how many are responsible for accessibility to the electoral process for disabled people; and what plans he has to increase staff numbers in this area.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

There are currently four members of staff who spend all or most of their time on electoral matters. All include voting rights for disabled people among their responsibilities. There are no plans to increase staffing levels.

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make it his policy to undertake regular consultation with representative groups and organisations concerning the accessibility of the electoral process for disabled people.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

We already consult some groups representing disabled people on matters in which they have an interest. We would welcome an approach from any others who wish to bring their particular concerns to our attention, or to offer their special expertise.

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make it his policy to conduct sample surveys on the accessibility of polling stations before, during and after each round of local, general and European elections.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

No. Sample surveys would not be an effective use of our resources in this area, which are better directed to providing financial support. It is our long-term aim to have all polling stations capable of easy access by disabled electors, and we issue regular reminders to district and London borough councils of their obligation to designate as polling places, so far as is reasonable and practicable, only places which are accessible to the disabled.

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make it his policy to review the implementation of schedule 4 to the amended Representation of the People Act 1985, concerning the accessibility of polling stations.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

We keep all electoral law and practice under regular review. We are currently undertaking a comprehensive review in the light of experience at the general election in April.