Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has slammed the government for 'ignoring' the concerns of disabled people.
The MP expressed his ‘deep disappointment’ after the Minister for Local Transport, Simon Lightwood MP, refused to meet with him and Jackie Snape, CEO of Disability Action Yorkshire.
Tom wanted to discuss critical issues affecting disabled people’s access to public transport.
He first raised the issue with the Minister on 13th February following a meeting he chaired with Disability Action Yorkshire.
Concerns were raised about restrictions that ban disabled people from using their bus passes before 9am, preventing them from traveling during peak hours on public transport.
When given the opportunity to address these concerns in Parliament, the Minister instead avoided the issue, choosing to reference increased funding without acknowledging the specific challenges faced by disabled people.
Frustrated by this response, Tom wrote a letter to the Minister requesting a meeting with himself and Jackie Snape, to explore this issue further and to ultimately find a solution.
In response, the Minister’s office stated that he did not have time to meet.
He said:
“By declining to meet with me and Jackie Snape, CEO of Disability Action Yorkshire, the Minister has sent a clear message that improving transport access for disabled people is not a priority.
“I find it deeply concerning that he does not take their needs seriously.
“This also raises serious questions about the Minister’s commitment to his own disabled constituents.
“By stating he does not have the time to discuss this issue, he implies that his disabled constituents are not represented in the same way as others.”
Tom added:
“I have given the Minister ample opportunities to engage on this issue and find a solution and yet, he has repeatedly refused.
“This is extremely disappointing. I urge him to reconsider and meet with Jackie and me to end this restrictive policy. Enough is enough.”
Tom has followed up with another letter expressing his disappointment over the “clear lack of concern" and has again requested a meeting.

Vale of York services given go-ahead despite "rape of countryside" claim
Traffic to use new A59 Kex Gill route for first time tomorrow
Annual Tour de Aky set to hit £10,000 target
Harrogate bus staff nominated for national award
Parking warning issued after Burnsall car park closes
Spire Harrogate Clinic earns top housekeeping award
Otley music studio launches six-week daytime courses
New guide helps families find free and low-cost summer fun
Much-loved Slingsby Gin becomes new Festivals' partner
Princess Royal to become Great Yorkshire Show President
Concern over lack of consultation ahead of Lifeline cuts decision
Animal charity launches £2 million redevelopment appeal
Sneak peek: New Otley play area starts to take shape
Historic Harrogate pub named among the UK's best by The Telegraph
Police appeal to find wanted Harrogate man
Harrogate MP calls on new Prime Minister to overhaul 'broken' water industry
Harrogate nursery children get messy for International Mud Day
Harrogate Autumn Flower Show to celebrate 50th anniversary
Ripon swimming sensation secures dream move to US university
First look at Ripon Workhouse Museum after £2.8million refurb


