§ Mr. BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security 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. [18590]
§ Mr. HagueThe Department has an on-going programme to ensure that disabled customers and staff have access to our buildings and services. A wide range of measures have already been taken to improve access, including surveys, building adaptations and the provision of equipment and services. The Department is also committed to providing access to information in a format which suits the customer, for example, in braille, tape or video. We will continue to build on this approach.
The Disability Discrimination Bill, which will apply to all Government Departments, contains new rights for disabled people in employment and creates a right of access to goods, facilities and services. It also establishes the National Disability Council to advise the Government on eliminating discrimination against disabled people.