Pram ban petition backed by hundreds

Published on Wednesday 3 September 2008 09:44

HUNDREDS of people have signed a petition in their campaign to overturn Lothian Buses' controversial ban on prams.

Mums launched the petition to the Scottish Parliament calling for parents to have equal access to public transport last week. It has collected over 440 signatures.

Lothian Buses began enforcing the policy in July, which they say is in line with the Disability Discrimination Act. They only allow buggies that can be folded to use wheelchair space if it is unoccupied.

But parents protest that these are unsuitable for young babies, and say they are prepared to leave the space if a wheelchair user gets on board. Disability groups also say there is no reason why they cannot use the space if it is vacant.

Campaigner Catriona Black said: "This policy shows a lack of understanding of the challenges facing parents and carers of infants.

"All of the parents of young babies to whom we have spoken agree that they would readily leave the bus to vacate the space."

Lothians MSP Shirley Anne Somerville is planning to lead a delegation of parents in a meeting with the bus company. Eight MSPs have signed a motion to the Parliament, saying the policy discriminates against parents with young children.