Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Andrew Jones and Lisa Cameron

Thursday 8th December 2016 Commons Chamber

[Andrew Jones]

My hon. Friend raises an important issue. It is a condition of an operator’s passenger licence that it must publish a disabled persons protection policy. That covers how the needs of visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing people are met with regard to AV systems, including in times of delay or disruption. DPPPs have to be approved by the Office of Rail and Road. Additionally, disability awareness training is mandatory for all customer-facing staff and managers in train operating companies.

[Dr Lisa Cameron (East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow) (SNP)]

This week, the all-party parliamentary group for disability published an informative report on measures to close the disability employment gap. One of the issues raised by disabled people is the cutting of benefits, which reduces their independence and results in the removal of their Motability vehicles. When will the Government reverse this disabling policy?

[Andrew Jones]

The hon. Lady raises a very important question. I will have to look into this matter and reply to her in writing.