(6 years, 4 months ago)
Commons Chamber Brandon Lewis
        
    
    
    
    
    
        
        
        
            Brandon Lewis 
        
    
        
    
        My right hon. Friend makes a very good point. That is absolutely right, and as I say, it is why I am very proud to be the chairman of a party that has a fund, through the Conservative Foundation, that puts money into supporting candidates in that way. It is for all of us in all political parties to support candidates of all types and abilities to come forward, stand and represent their constituents.
 Luke Pollard (Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport) (Lab/Co-op)
        
    
    
    
    
    
        
        
        
            Luke Pollard (Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport) (Lab/Co-op) 
        
    
        
    
        May I encourage the Minister to look at hidden disabilities, such as fibromyalgia and ME, as well as physical disabilities, to ensure that people with hidden disabilities, which might not be instantly recognisable, are included in the democratic process?
 Brandon Lewis
        
    
    
    
    
    
        
        
        
            Brandon Lewis 
        
    
        
    
        Yes. The hon. Gentleman is right. It is for all of us to ensure we have a holistic approach to make sure nobody is ever left behind and everybody has a chance to reach their full potential.