MPs slammed for plans to scrap quango

UK MINISTERS are under fire over plans to scrap a quango which advises the Government on transport issues for disabled people.

A consultation is under way on whether to abolish the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee, but the government has already said it is minded to do so.

Speaking in the Commons, Edinburgh North and Leith MP Mark Lazarowicz appealed for a rethink and highlighted the committee's work on issues such as low-floor buses and disability awareness training for transport staff.

He said: "There is a majority of disabled people on the committee, which gives it authority and credibility, and an understanding of the issues, and I believe the government have drawn great benefit from that.

"If the committee is abolished, there is a great risk the voice of disabled people on transport issues will be weakened."

Alan Rees, secretary of the Scottish Accessible Transport Alliance, said the committee was vitally important: "It's the only statutory advisory body to UK ministers for the interests of disabled people regarding their travel and transport."