Orders of the Day — Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons (Amendment) Bill

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 9:40 am on 18 November 1983.

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Photo of Mr Dafydd Wigley Mr Dafydd Wigley Leader and Party President, Plaid Cymru 9:40, 18 November 1983

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I should like to raise a matter that has been brought to my attention in the last 24 hours. Jill Allen of Southend, a blind person who wished to attend today's debate, has experienced difficulty in going into the Strangers Gallery because she is always accompanied by her guide dog which frets when she leaves it. There is no facility in the Chamber for the dog to go into the Strangers Gallery, although it is possible in another place.

I appreciate the difficulties faced by the staff of the House when they try to cope with all the pressures that are put on them. I also appreciate the considerable effort that has been made today to help disabled people to go to the Strangers Gallery. Nevertheless, the case of Jill Allen provides an example, right under our noses, of the very discrimination with which the Bill is concerned.

If it is not possible to make the necessary arrangements today, would you, Mr. Speaker, look into this matter to ensure that the House is not guilty of committing those things which we are trying to prevent?