2 September 2023

FAO: Tom Pursglove, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work

Dear Minister

I am writing on behalf of the Conservative Disability Group with regard to the report that the UK government will not be attending the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) review. I am concerned that the advice you have received is incorrect and the decision not to attend may show the Government does not respect the rights of disabled people.

As a group who strive to promote accessibility, we would urge the Government to reassess its decision and attend the review, regardless of any public scrutiny, to highlight the work undertaken by the UK Government.

The UK is a leader on disability issues, with many countries around the world following our best practice. There is still much to do to ensure disabled people receive equal rights, however this should not stop the Government from attending such meetings.

I hope the Government will attend the review to highlight the work being undertaken in the UK to remove barriers so disabled people can lead productive lives.

Yours sincerely,

Barry Ginley, CDG Chair