§ Mr. ReedTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will include(a) colitis and (b) Crohn's disease in future research on the eligibility criteria for the blue badge scheme. [134339]
§ Mr. McNultyFollowing a recent review of the Blue Badge Scheme, we will be undertaking research into the independent mobility needs of certain groups of people, including people with colitis and Crohn's disease, to determine whether eligibility should be extended. We propose to take forward that research in 2004.
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§ Tim LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what (1) representations he has received from disabled motorcycle owners about problems with attaching disabled badges designed for car windscreens to motorcycles; [134799]
(2) what advice he has issued to disabled motorcycle owners about attaching disabled badges to their vehicles. [134800]
§ Mr. McNultyUnder the current regulations the blue badge must be displayed on the dashboard or fascia panel of the vehicle, with the front facing forward, so that the relevant details are clearly legible from outside of the vehicle.
For motorcycles we advise that the badge should be exhibited in a conspicuous position on the vehicle so that the relevant details on the front are visible. The precise method of attaching the badge is a matter for the badge holder to determine.
We have received representations from individual disabled motorcyclists and from the National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD) about the problems of displaying the badge so that it complies with the requirements of the regulations. Following discussions with NABD we have agreed to support the Association in designing a suitable secure holder for the badge and the associated time clock. We are, therefore, funding a design competition for 2nd year students at Salford University's School of Art & Design. We hope to have the winning design by summer next year.