Mr Major’s Written Parliamentary Answer on Disabled People (Library Facilities) – 12 May 1987

Below is the text of Mr Major’s written Parliamentary Answer on Disabled People (Library Facilities) on 12th May 1987.

Mr. Alfred Morris Asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what representations he has received from the Cassette Library for the Blind and Handicapped concerning the provisions of library facilities for people unable to read; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what assistance is provided by his Department towards the Cassette Library for the Blind and Handicapped; and if he will make a statement;
(3) if he is satisfied that local authorities are fulfilling their duty under section 2(1)(b) of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 to make arrangements for library services for people with disabilities, in particular for books on cassette for people unable to read; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Major It is for local authorities to satisfy themselves as to what is necessary to meet the needs of individual disabled people under section 2(1)(b) of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970.

The cassette library of recorded books (CALIBRE) received grants under section 64 of the Health Services and Public Health Act 1968 from 1976 to March 1987. Although further requests and representations have been made, when the last grant was awarded it was made clear then that no commitment could be given to further funding.