§ Brian CotterTo ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if he will list the sources of information that are available on emergency planning in the event of a terrorist attack for members of the public who(a) are unable to access the internet and (b) are visually impaired; and if he will make a statement. [117277]
§ Mr. AlexanderThe main source of information for the public in the event of a terrorist attack will be through the broadcasters and their full range of services.
This includes TV (with sign language or subtitles as necessary), Radio including minority language broadcasts, Teletext, Ceefax and through websites. These will provide a range of accessible options for users with hearing or sight impairments. Such arrangements are appropriate to existing and anticipated threat levels.
The core advice to the public is to "Go in, stay in, tune in" and follow the advice from the emergency services who will be best placed to decide the appropriate response.
While many people do not have access to the Internet at home, through the People's Network programme (part of the UK online initiative) the technology is available in most public libraries together with trained staff to help new users of any age or ability.
The Home Office website, www.homeoffice.gov.uk/terrorism, has details about the nature of any threat, general guidance on sensible precautions to take for a civil emergency, and detailed information about how Government work behind the scenes to protect the public. More sources of information can be found on www.ukresilience.info.