Disabled people still denied taxis

The government has announced that it will investigate complaints that some taxi drivers still refuse to carry disabled people in the first half of next year.

Despite the fact that the Disability Discrimination Act has been in place for over 12 years, some drivers are getting away with snubbing disabled passengers.

Baroness Chapman, who uses a wheelchair, had asked the government to do more to enforce the Act, after claiming that disabled people have fewer rights in a taxi than a guide dog.

Lord Bassam told her during a question session: "The government remains committed to delivering more accessible taxis. In light of the Government's 'better regulation' agenda, ministers are currently re-evaluating all the options, both regulatory and non-regulatory.

"We will be announcing our proposals early in the new year. In the meantime, we are encouraging taxi licensing authorities to ensure that local policies take full account of the needs of all taxi users."

He added: "I am sure it will enable some more positive steps to be made in terms of ensuring that we have a more all-embracing taxi service that is accessible to all members of our society and, in particular, is fit for purpose in terms of assisting those with a disability."

Lady Chapman said that this July nine taxis in a row had refused to take her with her wheelchair.


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