Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by Baroness Vere of Norbiton on 19 March (HL Deb cols 93–96), what progress, if any, they have made in ensuring that there is automatic provision of accessible flat screen payment devices to hospitality and retail outlets, and specifically tactile covers to ensure these payment systems comply with the Equality Act 2010.

The government is committed to ensuring high standards of financial inclusion across the financial services sector. It is important that all payment methods are accessible for those with disabilities, including those with visual impairments.

The Treasury has been engaging with UK Finance, the Financial Conduct Authority, the Royal National Institute of Blind People, and other Government departments on this matter. UK Finance will soon be assessing potential initiatives to encourage stakeholders to adopt common standards for point-of-sale terminals and drive improvements and adoption. The Government is closely monitoring progress in this important area.