Written question asked by Roger Berry (Labour) on Thursday, 4 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 July 2002. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 July 2002 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will make it her policy to enshrine a grant-making power for the Secretary of State in the forthcoming Communications Bill similar to that enshrined in section 93 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 to defray or contribute towards expenses incurred in developing and providing accessible communications apparatus and technologies for disabled people.

Answer: Mr. Berry: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if she will make it her policy to enshrine a grant-making power for the Secretary of State in the forthcoming Communications Bill similar to that enshrined in section 93 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 to defray or contribute towards expenses incurred in developing and providing accessible communications apparatus and technologies for disabled people. [68305] Dr. Howells: The grant making powers under section 93 of the Telecommunications Act have never been used and it is not intended to carry them forward into the forthcoming Communications Bill. The Government will continue to work to improve the range of communications equipment available for people with disabilities through raising awareness of their needs among equipment designers and manufacturers.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 68305; 389 c407W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Access Disability Costs Disability aids Grants Equipment Ministerial powers Telecommunications
Legislation: Draft Communications Bill
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk