Letter: Buses for all

Sir: Cllr Peter Forrest is missing an important point in his criticism of London Transport's move to low-floor buses (letter, 4 November). These benefit much larger groups than wheelchair users, for example parents travelling with small children in buggies.

It is not surprising that he has yet to see one wheelchair user on the services he uses, because the bulk of our bus network is still operated with inaccessible vehicles. Until useful connections can be made, most wheelchair users will not make regular use of our services.

"Dial-a-Ride" will continue to operate for those disabled people who have to travel from door to door, but for those who can get to the bus stop London Transport is welcoming their custom on to a system which enhances the mobility and independence of these important members of society.

Cllr Forrest would do well to read the Disability Discrimination Act which was passed into law by the previous government and will require all new buses to be wheelchair-accessible from next year.

ANDREW BRADDOCK

Head of Unit for Disabled Passengers

London Transport

London SW1