§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to extend the scope of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 to incorporate drivers of minicabs and private hire cars. [5847]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonWe currently have no such plans. The public transport vehicles which are included in the Act are essentially those which offer the opportunity for spontaneous travel. Private hire cars are booked in advance, when customers can specify any particular needs they may have. Our priority is to use the powers which are currently provided by the Act to bring forward accessibility regulations for taxis, buses and coaches and rail vehicles. We hope to begin consultation on draft technical specifications in the next few weeks.