Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what plans she has to ensure that all (a) newly constructed and (b) refurbished public (i) buildings and (ii) supermarkets meet accessibility standards for disabled people.

The government recognises the importance of ensuring that new buildings are accessible and adaptable to meet the diverse needs of individuals throughout their lives.

The Building Regulations (Part M) set out requirements for people to gain access to and use a building and its facilities. The Building Regulations are not retrospective; they apply to new buildings or those undergoing major refurbishment.

The Equality Act 2010 makes provisions for disabled people who may encounter difficulties in accessing commercial premises, so that disabled customers are not placed at a substantial disadvantage compared to non-disabled customers.