In the ongoing Covid inquiry, former minister for disabled people, Justin Tomlinson, defended the government's handling of the pandemic concerning disabled individuals, stating that the government recognized their increased risk from the virus and took action accordingly.
However, evidence presented earlier in the inquiry suggested that disabled people's concerns were largely disregarded, and there was no coherent plan for them at the start of the pandemic.
Tomlinson asserted that work was done at pace to address the issues faced by disabled individuals, including ensuring the disability benefits assessment system continued to function smoothly.
The inquiry has highlighted the need for better consideration and support for disabled people during the pandemic, as nearly six out of 10 people who died with Covid-19 in England from January to November 2020 were disabled.
Disabled rights organizations have criticized the government for not adequately consulting with them and for the slow response in addressing accessibility issues and providing information in alternative formats for disabled individuals.