The Rt Hon John Hayes MP 

Minister of State for Transport

Dear John,

I am writing to you about the Disability Equality Training Bill which did not progress through Parliament in the last Parliamentary term.

As you will know, according to recent research by the charity Guide Dogs, 42% of assistance dog owners were refused entry to a taxi or minicab because they had a dog with them. People with sight loss rely on transportation like minicabs and taxis and it is vital that drivers are provided with training on the rights and needs of disabled people.

I would, therefore, appreciate an update on the Disability Training Bill and to know what steps the Government will be taking to introduce disability equality training for taxi and mini cab drivers.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this matter.

Yours sincerely,