Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps his Department are taking to ensure universal coverage of (a) audio and (b) visual assistance to (i) deaf or (ii) blind travellers.

Clear, accessible information can help people to feel more confident when travelling on public transport, particularly those who have visual or hearing impairments. In respect of buses, the Department plans to consult later this year on detailed proposals for the introduction of an accessible information requirement, mandating the provision of audible and visible route and “next stop” information on local bus services throughout Great Britain.

In respect of trains, all new trains built since 1999 have had to meet mandatory accessibility standards, which include audio visual passenger information systems. Rail vehicles built before 1999 must have passenger information systems fitted by 31 December 2019. Any new or replacement station infrastructure must comply with current EU and UK accessibility standards. Failure to comply with these requirement can lead to enforcement action by the Office of Rail and Roads.