I know that taxis and private hire vehicles are essential for many disabled people, and drivers are required to make reasonable adjustments for disabled passengers. The Equality Act 2010 places duties on taxi and private hire vehicle drivers to carry assistance dogs at no additional charge. Taxi and private hire vehicle drivers are obliged to transport wheelchair users in their wheelchair, provide passengers in wheelchairs with appropriate assistance, and charge wheelchair users the same as non-wheelchair users. 
 
As is rightly stated, "refusals are not only illegal, they also knock people's confidence and stop them doing the everyday things that most people take for granted." Failure to comply with this requirement can result in prosecution and a fine on conviction of up to £1,000. A driver was recently fined £1,546, including legal costs, for refusing access to a guide dog, and prosecution sends a strong message right across the industry.
 
Although there is no legal requirement for taxi and private hire vehicle drivers to undertake disability awareness training, the Department for Transport's Best Practice Guidance on taxi and private hire vehicle licensing recommends that local licensing authorities work with the industry in their area to improve drivers' awareness of the needs of disabled people. This includes encouraging their drivers to undertake disability awareness training, and in light of your email I have written to Stockport Council to ask what measures they are taking in this area.
 
Regarding the Guide Dogs stand at the Conservative Party Conference, I am sure you appreciate that as a Member of Parliament I receive invitations to a number of events and stands, and am yet to finalise my Conference diary. However should I get the chance to visit the Guide Dogs stand I would be delighted to hear more about the great work they do.