Supplementary written evidence submitted by the Inclusive Parliament Coalition (AHC0027)

We write to follow up on key points from our submission and evidence session and in response to the Committee’s ongoing call for examples of good practice and practical next steps.

We draw the Committee’s attention to a powerful moment in the Portuguese Parliament, where MP Joacine Katar Moreira, who has a speech difference, was afforded time and respect to express herself without interruption or ridicule. In contrast to the treatment often seen in Westminster – such as in this clip featuring Ed Balls, where verbal repair followed by stammering were met with laughter and jeers and the experiences Paul Maynard highlighted – this offers a model of inclusive chamber conduct. The Portuguese example is available here: Joacine Katar Moreira – Portuguese Parliament.

This contrast illustrates the importance of embedding cultural as well as procedural change: not only enabling access through technology or scheduling, but also shaping norms that foster respect for diverse communication styles.

We also would like to reiterate and expand upon two critical recommendations which we hope the Committee will endorse:

1. Embed inclusive language and communication support into Standing Orders and Erskine May, ensuring members are explicitly entitled to reasonable adjustments, including the provision of extra time, the use of communication professionals, visual supports, or alternative forms of expression, including speaking BSL and augmentative and alternative communication.
2. Establish a confidential MP access needs register within the Parliamentary Digital Service. This should be MP-owned, uphold privacy, and ensure continuity across procedural, digital, and administrative functions – avoiding ad hoc solutions and removing the burden of repeated disclosure.

The effective, even if unintentional, exclusion of signers and those with communication disabilities, difficulties, or differences from full participation in parliamentary life is not due to a lack of solutions – but to a lack of systems, consistency, and political will. The reforms we propose are feasible, future-proofed, and rooted in the experience of over 30 representative organisations and people who sign or have communication disability, difficulty, or difference.

We are grateful for the Committee’s commitment to modernisation and remain ready to support further action. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further detail or collaboration on co-designing reforms.

Yours faithfully,

Gillian Rudd

For and on behalf of the Inclusive Parliament coalition

July 2025