Dr Alan Whitehead, MP for Southampton Test, yesterday took part in a British Sign Language training event at the Houses of Parliament.  The event was planned to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Government’s official recognition of British Sign Language.

Expert trainers from the British Deaf Association taught the Southampton MP some simple phrases which will help him to communicate better with his deaf constituents.

Speaking from Westminster after the event Dr Whitehead said:
“I am extremely pleased to have been given this opportunity, not only to learn some sign language, but also to gain an insight into the fantastic work of the British Deaf Association (BDA). The fact that this Labour Government was the first officially to recognise British Sign Language five years ago is a cause for celebration. It also highlights the fact that there is much more to be done in ensuring the equal treatment, civil rights and quality of life of Britain’s 9 million deaf and hard of hearing people. I am pleased to hear that the Prime Minister met a delegation of sign language users on 6 February to discuss improving access to services, employment and cultural activities for sign language users.”