Disabled People Inequality 2023-12-13
2023-12-13
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The government's long-term vision for tackling disability is to be outlined in the national disability strategy and a forthcoming disability action plan.
What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to tackle inequality for disabled people?
In July 2021, the Government set out our long-term vision in the national disability strategy. Over the summer, we consulted on the disability action plan, which will set out the immediate action that the Government are taking in 2024.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions not detailed beyond mentioning a consultation and an upcoming action plan.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A constituent in Lancaster who uses a wheelchair is unable to board a bus if another wheelchair user is already present.
The neuro drop-in centre in Lancaster provides unique support, but my constituent, who travels there by bus from Bowerham to Torrisholme, cannot board the bus if another wheelchair user is on it. Does the Minister think that is fair?
That does not sound terribly fair at all. I am very interested in what the hon. Lady shares with the House. Of course, we have a Transport Minister answering questions today, so I am very happy for us to look at that issue for her.
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Assessment & feedback
Issue of fairness acknowledged but no commitment made on specific follow-up actions.
We Have A Transport Minister Answering Questions Today
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The government is implementing changes to benefits and NHS prescriptions that could affect disabled individuals.
Why do the Government hit people with disabilities the hardest at every opportunity, considering Sense findings and the Conservative cost of living crisis?
I apologise, Mr Speaker. The hon. Member for South Shields will know that we are making cost of living payments once again to support people in need. That support totals over £104 billion. There is also the household support fund, which is about £1 billion this year.
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Assessment & feedback
General support measures mentioned but no specific commitment on impact or changes for disabled individuals.
We Are Supporting People In Need
£104 Billion Cost Of Living Payments
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The disability pay gap has increased under the Conservatives and Labour proposes disability pay gap reporting for large employers.
Why will the Government not follow Labour's proposal to introduce disability pay gap reporting?
We are absolutely committed to supporting disabled people. We have supported more than 1 million disabled people into work, hitting the target five years early, and we are rewiring our benefits system to give a renewed focus on what people can do rather than what they cannot.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to supporting disabled individuals but no specific reason given for not implementing disability pay gap reporting.
We Are Committed To Supporting Disabled People
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
No Minister for disabled people has been appointed and the disability pay gap is increasing.
Why does the government not have a Minister for disabled people?
I am the lead on those matters for Equalities oral questions. I am disappointed that I am not enough for her today, but I do lead on those matters for the Department. All Department for Work and Pensions Ministers take responsibility across our portfolios.
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Assessment & feedback
Acknowledgment of responsibilities but no specific rationale given for lack of dedicated ministerial position.
I Am Disappointed That I Am Not Enough
Response accuracy
Q6
Direct Answer
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Context
The Times reported on the invisibility of disabled people in employment applications.
What work is being done to help disabled individuals get better employment opportunities?
As the Minister responsible for social mobility, I am taking direct leadership on access to employment. We have billions of pounds in our back to work plan and are supporting vulnerable people by uprating benefits by 6.7% in April equally.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy