Oral Answers to Questions

Peter Aldous Excerpts

Monday 14th March 2016 Commons Chamber

[Helen Whately (Faversham and Mid Kent) (Con)]

2. What steps he is taking to support people with disabilities into employment.

[Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con)]

12. What steps he is taking to support people with disabilities into employment.

[Rebecca Harris (Castle Point) (Con)]

16. What steps he is taking to support people with disabilities into employment.

--- Later in debate ---

[Justin Tomlinson]

That is a powerful point. On 14 January I launched a taskforce that included the Royal National Institute of Blind People, the British Deaf Association, Action on Hearing Loss, the National Federation for the Blind, People First, the British Institute of Learning Disabilities, Sense and Mencap to look at that issue and at how, as a Department, we can lead across Government. I would be delighted if my hon. Friend would join that taskforce.

[Peter Aldous]

May I urge the Minister to publish the White Paper on employment support for those with disabilities as soon as practically possible? I take note of the Secretary of State’s earlier response that it would be before the summer break, but there has been some slippage on that. Will my hon. Friend outline what provisions the White Paper will contain on integrating employment and health support?

[Justin Tomlinson]

We will shortly be publishing the White Paper, which will set out the reforms for improved support for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions. We will be looking at a number of issues, including ways to engage with employers as part of our commitment to halve the disability employment gap, integration across health and employment, and further localised tailored support. This is an exciting opportunity.