People with learning disabilities were given the opportunity to quiz Sir Vince Cable on a range of issues.

This is part of a United Responses charity campaign which aims to engage people with disabilities in politics.

The MP visited Rowen House in Teddington and spoke to eight people with a range of complex learning disabilities.

He was asked questions on a range of issues including knife crime and Brexit.

Siobhan, one of the people supported by the charity, said: “I think more politicians should listen to people with disabilities, it was good to see him [Sir Vince Cable].”

Sir Vince was asked about politicians engaging with people with disabilities. He said: “The evidence suggests that people with learning disabilities suffer disadvantage in areas like healthcare and it is very important that we talk to them and understand their concerns.

“Particularly in the light of the financial burdens that are being put on charities which support them by the new sleep-in charges."

The effort to engage people with disabilities in the political process is part of a campaign to increase participation and help them make informed choices.

United Response found that there is a lack of understanding among politicians about the needs of people with learning disabilities.

Adam Sutherland, United Response enterprise manager, said: “There are too often people who don’t have a voice. But they have a right to vote and a right to be represented.

“Our experience as an organisation tells us that political parties have still got a long way to go to encourage more people with disabilities to become politically active.

“For too long, people who live with disabilities have flown the radar of decision makers. It’s high time to say enough is enough and to start listening to society's hidden voices."