Euro-MP calls on Businesses to clamp down on irresponsible drivers

10.41.42am GMT Tue 22nd Feb 2005

ALDE Disability Spokesperson in the European Parliament Liz Lynne was saddened to learn that more than one in five disabled parking spaces in supermarkets, are used by non-disabled drivers.

Speaking after campaign group Baywatch released the results of their latest survey, the Liberal Democrat MEP said:

"Supermarkets provide limited car parking space for disabled people as it is. The fact that one in five of these spaces is filled by someone who does not have a disability means it is increasingly difficult for disabled people to find a space.

"Many supermarkets have run advertising campaigns but there still remains a problem with inconsiderate customers who refuse to see the problems they create."

The survey found that the problems were not just confined to supermarkets. Almost a quarter of disabled parking bays in hospitals, railway stations and local authority buildings were also being used incorrectly.

Liz Lynne added:

"With the implementation of the Disability Discrimination Act last year, all businesses must look again at their facilities for disabled people, especially with access to their buildings. They have had plenty of warning so there can be no excuse for not complying with the law."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

As well as being the rapporteur of the European Year of People with Disabilities 2003, Liz also drafted the Parliament's report supporting a UN Convention on Disabled People's Rights last year.