§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Prime Minister what considerations underlay the Government's decision not to seek to amend the Civil Rights (Disabled Persons) Bill at Committee stage; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterAlthough the Government share the aim of eliminating discrimination against disabled people, we favour specific legislation. Despite concerns about the Bill's clarity, affordability and practicality, we examined it in detail, in a considered way, at Committe stage to see whether any parts of it were appropriate and acceptable. Having decided that the Bill could not be accepted, the Government subsequently announced their intention to consult within six months on proposals for action in five key areas: employment, access to goods and services, financial services, access to buildings and the establishment of a new advisory body on disability.