Department for Transport
The Department aims to improve transport provision for disabled people - whether as pedestrians, public and special transport users, or motorists - while also improving accessibility in public places.
At long last and in many different ways, Britain is evolving into a more equal society. It is no accident that the UK now has the most comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation in Europe.
The aim of this legislation is simple. It has been designed to deliver measurable improvements for those who have traditionally been discriminated against in our society.
And as a part of our commitment to end discrimination, this Government made a very clear Manifesto pledge - and that was to deliver 'comprehensive civil rights' to disabled people.
Very simply, we believe disabled citizens have an unquestionable right to enjoy and benefit from equal access to services and opportunities - and in every aspect of their lives.
With the implementation of the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act, we've come a very long way in achieving that goal. And the recent publication of the Disability Discrimination Bill is the last major step towards fulfilling our commitment.
As you will know, bus and railway stations and other public transport infrastructure are already covered by the provision of Part 3 of the Disability Discrimination Act. Technical standards for vehicle accessibility are covered by Part 5. The new Bill will bring vehicles within the civil rights framework of the Act and will extend the scope of the DDA in a number of other areas.
Transport is absolutely fundamental to delivering a person's civil rights. Without that access, the opportunities open to disabled people to get employment - to get access education or health care - or simply to do all the things that everyone else does - are very limited indeed.