Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has successfully secured a vote tonight on his amendment to remove the 9:30 am start time for disabled bus passes under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS).
The amendment has attracted strong cross-party support, with over 75 MPs, including several Labour members, backing it. Tom welcomed its selection for vote after months of campaigning on the topic. If passed, the change would represent a major step forward in tackling one of the everyday barriers faced by disabled people.
This vote is a crucial test for the Labour Government. It’s a chance for them to finally stand up for disabled people – after months of cuts, broken promises, and rhetoric that has stigmatised rather than supported. Backing this amendment would show they’re serious about equality and accessibility, not just in words but in action. If they choose not to act, they’ll be turning their backs on disabled people yet again.
Tom Gordon MP said:
The case for my amendment is crystal clear: disabilities don’t start at 9:30am – so disabled bus passes shouldn’t either.
I’m proud that after months of campaigning, it’s been selected for a vote and that Parliament now has the chance to put this right.
If the government truly cares about fairness and inclusion, this is their chance to show it. Blocking this amendment would only prove what many already fear – that Labour simply doesn’t care about disabled people.
