Disability inclusion in the House of Commons: A new institutionalism story

Abstract Reflecting the increasing salience of disability inclusion in Britain and ongoing efforts to improve accessibility of its political and social structures, this study focuses on the country’s key elected political institution, the House of Commons. Specifically, this paper addresses two research questions: (1) to what extent (and how) has the House’s efforts adapted to the needs of disabled Members, and (2) how does disability inclusion reflect on the institution’s capacity and willingness to change. Drawing upon analyses of documents and interviews with parliamentary staff and parliamentarians, it challenges the assumption of institutional rigidity of the House of Commons. In two out of three areas of analysis, it has changed significantly, as an institution and developed a strong institutional commitment, infrastructure, and comprehensive support services for disabled Members. However, a persistent pull towards continuity regarding parliamentary culture requires further ‘attitudinal’ change within and outside the House.