Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has slammed the Government after the voted down his amendment to change bus pass restrictions for disabled people.
The Liberal Democrat MP has been campaigning to remove the “unfair” 9:30am start time restriction on disabled bus passes under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.
Tom delivered a strong case in Parliament, highlighting both the moral and economic reasons for scrapping the restriction.
Backed by over 75 MP’s across parties and major disability charities nationwide, support for the change was clear.
But the Government ignored this consensus.
Tom Gordon said:
“The Labour Government’s vote to reject my amendment on disabled bus passes speaks volumes.
"This was their moment to show they take equality and accessibility seriously - but instead, they turned their backs on disabled people once again.
“It’s no surprise given their record of cutting vital support and promoting harmful rhetoric that stigmatises disabled communities. But it remains deeply disappointing."
Despite this setback, Tom said he remains ‘determined’ to continue campaigning to overturn the rule and “secure fair, accessible transport for disabled people.”
He added:
“Rejecting this amendment dismisses months of campaigning and the clear demand for change.
“This setback won’t stop me from fighting for disabled people’s right to travel freely, with the independence and fairness they deserve.”
Corriedale: Your Harrogate visits premiere ahead of historic crossover episode
Brand new local voucher platform set to launch next month
Appeal lodged over proposed mobile phone mast near Harrogate school
What happened to Savoro? No update two weeks after closure
End of an era as Banyan bar closes in Harrogate
Vaccines to be made accessible to struggling Yorkshire families
Final slots available for Christmas tree collection service
Harrogate resident receives knighthood in King's New Year's Honours list
Dog kicked in the head and knocked unconscious in Boroughbridge
Police seek two men after Harrogate assault leaves victim unconscious
Police appeal after quad bike theft in North Rigton
Location of proposed Battery Energy Storage System near Harrogate questioned
Motorists told to expect disruption ahead of Otley Road works
Forecasters predict snow in Harrogate next week
Carol Vorderman visits Harrogate during festive Yorkshire stay
Ricky Durkin announced as new breakfast presenter at Your Harrogate Radio
Pateley Bridge to host first New Year's Day cyclo-cross event
Harrogate MP welcomes government U-turn on family farm inheritance tax
Santa Paws: Festive photo competition winners revealed
DalesBus reveals timetable over Christmas period
