HL Deb 16 October 2002 vol 639 c63WA
Lord Avebury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will consult with other European Union states on legislation to make it obligatory for ferry companies to allow guide dogs to accompany their owners anywhere on their vessels. [HL5898]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

The UK Government will be consulting shortly on removing the transport exemption in Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 which would have the effect of requiring ferry operators to take reasonable steps to change policies, procedures and practices which discriminated against disabled people. Policies on the treatment of guide and other assistance dogs are likely to be within the scope of the issues which operators would need to address. This proposal would require amendment to the primary legislation.