Key Facts

• The Bill amends the Equality Act 2010.
• It creates new duties for taxi drivers and operators regarding disabled passengers.
• Local licensing authorities are required to maintain a list of wheelchair-accessible taxis.
• London taxi drivers are recognized for their good work but there is a need to raise standards universally.
• Clause 3 amends section 167 of the Equality Act, requiring local licensing authorities to maintain and publish lists of designated wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
• Clause 2 modifies section 166 to ensure medical exemptions do not affect duties such as carrying passengers or imposing additional charges.
• The Bill will commence two months after it is passed to allow for preparation by licensing authorities and drivers.
• Disabled people take on average twice the number of taxi journeys each year as those without disabilities.
• Sheffield City Council has seen its spending power cut by £215 million since 2010—almost half of its total budget.
• The Bill requires local authorities to maintain a list of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and outlines new obligations under clause 1 for taxi drivers.
• Only wheelchair users and assistance dog users currently have rights under the Equality Act 2010 concerning taxi use.
• The Bill will ensure any disabled person has protection against refusals and extra costs in taxis or private hire vehicles.
• Currently, 30% of local licensing authorities do not maintain a list of designated wheelchair-accessible taxis and private hire vehicles.
• Local licensing authorities are expected to have data on wheelchair-accessible vehicles available annually for the Department for Transport.
• The Government will update their statutory guidance in advance of the Bill’s commencement.
• Jeremy Wright thanks Sheryll Murray for efficient process.
• Thanks are extended to the hon. Member for Sheffield, Brightside and Hillsborough for support of the Bill.
• Acknowledges congratulations to a Minister on their promotion in the Department.