Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential merits of providing taxi companies and drivers with autism awareness training.

The Government keeps all policies under review and is aware that neurodiverse people can face inadequate or discriminatory treatment when using taxis and private hire vehicles. We recognise the role of effective training in equipping drivers and operator staff with the knowledge, skills and confidence to support passengers appropriately. The latest best practice guidance for licensing authorities in England confirms our expectation that all drivers undergo training which should include, among other topics, how to engage with people with different communication needs.

The Government continues to consider how to improve the regulation of the sector to enable the provision of safe and accessible services that meet a wide range of passenger needs.