§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received on behalf of disabled people on the difficulties they face in hailing and booking taxis; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. AtkinsThe Department is in constant touch with disabled people and the organisations representing them.
Hailing and booking taxis has been a particular problem for wheelchair users. My Department was involved in the development of a wheelchair accessible London-type taxi. From 1 February this year all newly registered taxis in London have had to be wheelchair accessible and there are already 2,000 operating in the capital.
Disabled people are now able to state their requirements when pre-booking taxis through the booking agencies. At present a suitable vehicle cannot always be guaranteed. As the pool of wheelchair accessible taxis grows, wheelchair users will not only be able to pre-book taxis with greater certainty; they will also be able to hail suitable vehicles in the street.