The Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Carrying Disabled Persons) Bill - Clause 1

Notes that the Bill is an important addition but suggests it's time for a more comprehensive package of measures. Refers to Professor Mohammed Abdel-Haq’s recommendations from 2018.

Commends the content of the Bill while acknowledging that many taxi and private hire drivers already go out of their way to help disabled people, emphasising that this legislation builds on existing good practices.

Acknowledges the Bill's careful development with disabled groups; asks if personal issues raised awareness of the problem for Jeremy Wright, highlighting constituents' difficulties.

Raises concerns about availability and accessibility in urban areas; suggests a national database to centralise information on wheelchair-accessible taxis.

Complements the Bill, notes that it should not be seen as penalising those who already meet the requirements and asks for guidance on how to ensure this.

Committed to supporting the Bill as it aims to improve rights for disabled people using taxis. Cited a 2019 survey from Scope indicating that 30% of disabled individuals reported reduced independence due to public transport difficulties, with four in five feeling stressed or anxious when planning journeys. Highlighted significant cuts to local authorities' budgets since 2010 and the projected increase in bus fares by 60% and reduction in services, impacting elderly and disabled passengers. Emphasised the need for mandatory lists of wheelchair-accessible taxis maintained by local authorities but acknowledged potential challenges due to budget constraints. Advocated for training drivers on disability assistance and publicising new rights effectively.

Supports the Bill, highlighting its significance for disabled people in rural areas. She cites personal experiences of difficulties accessing taxis due to a lack of availability and discriminatory practices by some taxi drivers towards women with children. Emphasises that the Bill will make an enormous difference to her constituents' lives and expresses concern over Centrebus's decision to cut bus services, which exacerbates accessibility issues. Mentions the impact on individuals with life-limiting conditions, such as a loved one who is now reliant on a wheelchair due to cancer.

Supports the Bill, highlighting its necessity and emphasising the importance of reducing discrimination against disabled individuals. Cites statistics indicating that disabled people make twice as many journeys by taxi and private hire vehicles each year compared to non-disabled people. Mentions his constituency's rural areas where taxis are crucial for mobility. Acknowledges existing voluntary compliance but supports legislative enforcement.

Supports proposed new section 167A of the Equality Act 2010, which addresses refusal to accept bookings from disabled individuals. Expresses concern over rural dependency on taxis due to insufficient bus services and highlights accessibility issues at railway stations in West Dorset. Emphasises the importance of addressing hidden needs and promoting kindness among taxi drivers.

Supports the Bill for improving access to private hire vehicles for disabled people. Highlights issues with connectivity in rural areas, emphasising the need for uniform standards and training for taxi drivers. Calls for a database of accessible vehicles and stresses the importance of not charging extra for disabled passengers. Expresses concerns about local government restructuring affecting implementation but remains supportive.

Supports the Bill, noting it is non-contentious and aims to prevent discrimination against disabled people using taxis and private hire vehicles. Emphasises that local licensing authorities should maintain lists of wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Appreciates the existing practices but sees value in enforcing compliance.

Commends the Bill for its aim to provide equal treatment for disabled individuals using taxis and private hire vehicles, highlighting the need for consistency in the application of the Equality Act 2010. Emphasises that many people with disabilities face discrimination from drivers including refusal of service, overcharging, and failure to assist boarding or travelling comfortably and safely. Supports the Government’s pledge to create an inclusive transport network by 2030 and their efforts to close the employment gap between disabled and non-disabled working-age individuals. Points out that section 167 of the Equality Act only mandates local licensing authorities to maintain a list of wheelchair-accessible taxis and PHVs in 70% of cases, urging the Bill to address this issue by creating new offences for taxi drivers and PHV operators who refuse service or charge extra based on disability. Acknowledges the need for balance, including defences for drivers who could not reasonably have known a passenger was disabled.

Mr. Davies supports the Bill for ensuring fairness and a level playing field for disabled individuals who face discrimination in taxi services. He highlights statistics such as 14 million people living with disabilities, of whom 1.2 million use wheelchairs, and that disabled persons are twice as likely to need and use taxis or private hire vehicles than non-disabled persons. Davies emphasises the importance of improving accessibility for disabled individuals, noting that only 58% of taxis and 2% of private hire vehicles are wheelchair-accessible. He supports the Bill's aim to prevent taxi drivers from refusing a journey and requiring assistance for disabled people.

Rob supports the Bill, emphasising its importance for disabled individuals and those in rural areas. He mentions that almost two-thirds of his constituency is rural with many elderly and disabled residents relying on taxis as an essential service. Rob also discusses school transport provided by taxi firms for children with special educational needs and disabilities, highlighting the need for vehicles to be fit for transporting them safely. He raises concerns about discrimination faced by disabled people from some drivers and the inconsistency in enforcing protections under the Equality Act 2010.

Supports the Bill, highlighting its importance for disabled people's transport needs. Mentions that more than 14 million people in the UK have a disability and taxi/private hire vehicles are vital means of transport for them. Cites research indicating that 60% of disabled households have no car compared to 27% of the overall population, emphasising the necessity of accessible transportation. Acknowledges the efforts of Lord Borwick and the all-party parliamentary group on taxis in supporting disability access initiatives. Emphasises the need for broadening protections under the Equality Act to cover all disabled passengers, not just wheelchair users, ensuring drivers are willing to offer necessary assistance to make journeys manageable.

Welcomed the Bill's support from both government and opposition, highlighted key issues faced by disabled people in accessing taxis and private hire vehicles. Cited statistics showing that disabled people make twice as many journeys by taxi and face significant barriers to travel confidence compared to non-disabled individuals. Emphasised economic benefits of enabling access for disabled travellers.

Thanked his colleagues, officials, and advocates for their support. Emphasised the Bill's progress through the House with wisdom and common sense. Acknowledged contributions from various sectors to improve lives of disabled constituents.