Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with disabled passenger groups about achieving independent travel for disabled travellers on all forms of public transport.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

The government is committed to making transport more inclusive and accessible right across the country, so that it enables disabled people to travel safely, confidently and with dignity. Ministers are advised on accessible transport policy by the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee, whose membership is required to include at least 50% disabled people.

The Department for Transport also regularly meets with stakeholders to discuss a range of issues, including improving accessibility across the transport network. For example, the Department has engaged with organisations representing disabled passengers throughout the development of the Bus Services (No.2) Bill and the continuing consultation on the forthcoming Railways Bill, as well as through the engagement activities for the Integrated National Transport Strategy.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they intend to work with partners to reintroduce flight announcements for visually impaired travellers at UK airports.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

Aviation must be accessible to all. The Department for Transport launched the Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group, bringing together industry and consumer advocates with first-hand experience, to consider the barriers to air travel for disabled passengers and to develop practical and achievable actions to improve aviation accessibility across the consumer journey. Two key areas the Group is considering are around communication with passengers so that they have the right information, and ensuring passengers receive a tailored service that meets their needs. The Group is set to report to the Transport Secretary with their agreed recommended actions by Summer 2025.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to develop and implement an ethical framework for artificial intelligence.

Answered by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Government recognises the importance of responsible and ethical AI to provide business and consumer confidence in this technology and support its adoption across the economy.

AI assurance is crucial to ensuring that AI systems are developed and deployed ethically, responsibly and safely. That is why we have designated AI assurance as a key pillar of support for meeting the commitments made in the government’s response to the AI Opportunities Action Plan.

To drive demand for AI assurance, DSIT has developed and consulted on AI Management Essentials, a self-assessment framework designed to help businesses establish responsible management practices for the development and use of AI systems.