Debbie Abrahams MP, Labour’s Work and Pensions, speaking of the start of the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio, said:

“I am delighted that the Paralympics start in Rio today. It is great to see that so many British athletes are tipped for gold medals across a range of events, building on the unprecedented success of Paralympics GB in London and the fantastic Olympic performance of Team GB in Brazil.

“I am glad that the budgetary issues facing the Paralympics have now been resolved. Equality for disabled people is at the heart of my ambitions as Labour’s Shadow Secretary for Work and Pensions. I was deeply concerned to see the greatest sporting event in the world for disabled people subject to such uncertainty.  We must do more to ensure disability sport, from the grassroots to international competitions, is properly funded.

“Many British Paralympic athletes have also faced uncertainty at home, following deep Tory cuts to disability support, which have reduced some athletes’ access to Motability schemes. Motability is an essential provision of independence for disabled people across the UK, including our Paralympians.

“I look forward to watching Paralympics GB build on their exceptional performance at the London 2012 Games. London did so much to raise the profile of the Paralympics and it is important Rio continues this trend.”