I appreciate constituent concerns about taxis and private hire vehicles (PHV) refusing service to passengers with guide dogs. I understand that these services are essential for many disabled people. The Government has made efforts to ensure that individuals with guide dogs can access vital transport. The Equality Act 2010 established that taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers must carry guide dogs at no extra charge to the customers, and the Department of Transport established provisions in the Equality Act that require driver services to carry guide and assistance dogs.
Penalties exist for noncompliance with this requirement. Drivers can be prosecuted and, if convicted, fined up to £1,000. Recently, a driver who refused service to a citizen with a guide dog received a fine of £1,546 for such behaviour. I believe that such cases send a strong message across the industry that it is unacceptable to refuse service to individuals with guide dogs. I hope that my colleagues will draw such instances to the attention of the proper authorities.
Of course discrimination against disabled people is unacceptable. I firmly believe that assistance dog users should have access to transportation and services without hindrance. As discussed above, the Department of Transportation issued guidance on the existing law, with significant potential fines for refusing service. I believe that these requirements and laws provide strong financial motivation for compliance, but I understand that not all drivers and service providers understand the potential consequences of refusing service. I hope that we can increase awareness of these regulations. As such, I will carefully monitor developments in this area.