The bill seeks to build on protections provided by the Equality Act 2010, broadening them to address discrimination faced by a wider range of passengers with disabilities. It mandates taxi drivers to carry disabled passengers at no extra charge and to offer necessary assistance. The bill also requires local licensing authorities to maintain lists of wheelchair-accessible vehicles for easier accessibility.

Mr Dhesi supports the Bill, highlighting issues such as the lack of cars in disabled households and inaccessible public transport. He notes that 60% of disabled people do not have a car compared to 27% of the general population, and nearly half face job restrictions due to transport accessibility issues. He advocates for reasonable adjustments and recognises the Bill’s aim to expand protections under the Equality Act 2010 to all disabled individuals regardless of vehicle type.

Ms Hunt supports the Bill, focusing on three key elements: no extra charge, cannot refuse transport, and maintaining a list of wheelchair accessible vehicles. She highlights that disabled people make twice as many journeys by taxi compared to non-disabled individuals and suggests this represents an opportunity for taxi drivers to target a specific market segment.

Mr Baynes supports the Bill, noting its importance in addressing issues faced by disabled passengers. He emphasises the need for partnership with taxi and private hire vehicle sectors and highlights the role of such services during the pandemic.

Supports the Bill, emphasising its importance in making transport more inclusive for disabled people. Raises concerns about discrimination against disabled passengers by taxi drivers and provides research findings on wheelchair users being denied service or facing higher fares. Highlights the economic impact of such discrimination, including lower employment rates among disabled individuals. Argues that the Bill contributes to long-term strategies for accessible, affordable, and readily available transport.

Commends the importance of ensuring no barriers to entry for disabled people in using taxis and private hire vehicles. Discusses the reliance on such services in rural areas, highlighting their role during the pandemic. Emphasises the need to extend legal rights to protect individuals with various disabilities from discrimination, overcharging, and denial of service. Supports creating an inclusive transport network by 2030.

Welcomes the Bill and highlights its aim to improve access for disabled people. Emphasises the need to ensure taxi and PHV drivers provide appropriate assistance, regardless of disability. Cites statistics indicating that disabled people make twice as many journeys in taxis and private hire vehicles each year compared to non-disabled people but face discriminatory behaviour from some drivers.

Supports the Bill, acknowledging the majority of taxi drivers comply with regulations. Argues that requirements must be proportionate and encourages more awareness regarding disability needs among drivers.

Appreciates the support provided by taxi drivers during the pandemic. Argues that councils need to consider the impact of road closures and pedestrianisation on disabled passengers' access to transportation.

Personalises the Bill's importance, citing an example of a friend who relies on taxis when her hand-driven car is in for service. Emphasises that although technicalities are important, personalising the Bill highlights its significance for valued individuals.

Shaun Bailey supports the Bill, highlighting its importance in ensuring fundamental freedoms for individuals with disabilities. He emphasises the need for a consistent regulatory framework that enables people to access services regardless of physical impairments. He also mentions the significant number of people with mobility issues and argues that the Bill helps bring about consistency and partnership working between local licensing authorities and industry stakeholders.

Morton supports the Bill, highlighting its importance in ending discrimination against disabled people who use taxis and private hire vehicles. She notes that expanding protections to all disabled passengers would be an essential step towards a fully inclusive transport network. Morton cites statistics showing 22% of the UK population as having disabilities, with working-age adults representing 19%. The Bill aims to support the Government’s ambition for equal access to transport and draws attention to the national disability strategy which outlines commitments to ending discrimination against disabled people.

Wright thanks fellow Members for their contributions and acknowledges that the Bill is not an attack on drivers but rather a measure to ensure fair treatment for all disabled individuals seeking to travel in taxis or private hire vehicles. He expresses optimism about the Bill’s future stages, hoping for continued support.