§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (1) what discussions he has had with members of organisations representing people with disabilities on ensuring that cash machines used to access benefits at post offices will be accessible for disabled people; and if he will make a statement; [102790]
110W(2) what steps he is taking to ensure blind and partially sighted people are able to withdraw benefits in cash from a post office. [102791]
§ Malcolm Wicks[holding answer 13 March 2003]The detailed arrangements for collecting cash from bank accounts or the Post Office card account at Post Office branches are the responsibility of Post Office Limited. Post Office Limited have already acknowledged that some people may have problems using the PIN pads that have recently been in stalled in post office branches. The Post Office are now taking immediate action to address this and have invited the RNIB and other disability groups to work further with them.
All Customers will be given information about all of the account options available and it will be for them to consider which account best meets their needs and circumstances. The Department meets regularly with external interest groups including RNIB, RNID and Disability Alliance to discuss all issues surrounding Direct Payment.