Thank you to all those in Chelmsford who have told me about the need for British Sign Language to be a recognised legal language.
The British Sign Language Private Members’ Bill had its Second Reading on 28 January. I was in the Chamber that morning to listen to the debate and I am very glad that this important legislation passed with the full support of the House and the backing of the Government. I would like to pay tribute to all those campaigners who have contributed to the success of this Bill. The Bill will now continue its progress through the House and, hopefully, into law.
BSL, more broadly, may also be offered in schools as part of the school curriculum. I understand that the Department for Education is working to introduce a GCSE in BSL as soon as possible. The Government is aiming to consult publicly on the draft subject content this year.
I believe these changes are an important step towards levelling up this country for disabled people.
