Thank you for contacting my office. I very much
appreciate you getting in touch about guide dogs.
Due to urgent parliamentary business,
I was not able to attend this event. However, this is a vital issue and everyone deserves to travel with comfort and dignity.
That is why I value the use of guide dogs, which give people with disabilities
the freedom and confidence to work and visit friends independently. There are
already, as you are aware, strict laws against the discrimination of those who
rely on guide dogs.
The Equality Act 2010 makes clear the
duties of all people to permit guide dogs without any hindrance to most
services, premises and vehicles. Failure to comply with this requirement can
result in prosecution and a fine on conviction of up to £1,000.
The use of guide dogs is encouraged by the clear guidance which clarifies the rights of guide dog owners, and outlines the options available to those who have been discriminated against when using a guide dog. This includes the ability to report those who do not make reasonable adjustments to make a disabled person’s journey easier. Distinctive jackets for guide dogs to wear are available to help clearly identity them. It is also advised that any identification cards, if given, are carried by a person with disabilities to help ensure they are not discriminated against.
Thank you once again for getting in touch, and if I can be of further assistance with any other matter, please do not hesitate to contact me.
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