§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what discussions he has had with Railtrack regarding the displaying of information which can be understood by blind people; what discussions he has had regarding the quality of broadcasts made on stations about the relaying of train information; and if he will make a statement. [73144]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonWe work closely with Railtrack on a wide range of issues affecting the needs of disabled rail travellers, including those who are blind. Railtrack, in common with other service providers, are subject to the provisions of Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. From October 1999, service providers will have to take reasonable steps to change practices, policies or procedures which make it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to use a service and provide auxiliary aids or services, for example induction loops or information in Braille, which would enable disabled people to use a service.
My Department (in collaboration with representative bodies of local authorities and the professional institutions) is also producing advice for service providers in the transport sector on best practice in meeting the 484W needs of disabled people. That advice, which is due to be published later this year, will include guidance on both audible and visual information.