§ Mr. BarnesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will outline the measures taken, facilities offered and adjustments made in his Department and agencies for which he is responsible to facilitate access for disabled people; what plans he has to improve access; and if he will make a statement. [18593]
§ Mrs. BrowningThe Ministry, including its agencies, takes its responsibilities in the area of equal opportunities seriously and aims to respond as far as reasonably possible to the needs of disabled members of the public and staff.
In the area of access, the Ministry has for several years been reviewing its estate and improving the accessibility of the buildings it occupies. A survey of all staff in 1993 showed where they thought additional measures were necessary. Funds have now been set aside for a further three-year programme, starting with a full survey of the estate to indicate where further improvements can be made.