Stroud MP Siobhan Baillie has called on the government and the leisure industry to stop discrimination against disabled people at theme parks.

The Conservative MP held a debate today on disabled access following the case of six-year-old Sebby Brett, from Nailsworth, who was told to get out of his wheelchair and prove he could walk in front of a queue at Legoland last year.

His mother Joanna said it was a humiliating and painful experience for Sebby, who suffers from a medical condition similar to cerebral palsy.

“Brave children already battling disabilities should not be made to feel different or be excluded from leisure parks and rides,” said Mrs Baillie.

“Parents of disabled children should not always have to fight, challenge and complain.”

Under section 29 of the Equality Act, theme parks are obliged to make ’reasonable adjustments’ to improve access so that disabled customers of all ages are not placed at a substantial disadvantage.

“This serious and well-established legislation, passed more than 10 years ago, did not protect Sebby or improve his experience that day, nor is it working elsewhere,” Mrs Baillie said.

Following the debate at Westminster hall, Nigel Huddleston, Minister for Sport, Heritage and Tourism, said he would raise the issue with Merlin, which owns Legoland.

Merlin wrote to Mrs Baillie ahead of the debate and said the company had created an illustrated guide to help guests understand step-by-step ride evacuation, and it can also create bespoke plans for families, in addition to further staff training.

“Sebby watched the debate with joy. He was delighted that his and Lottie’s, his little sister, names were mentioned in the Houses of Parliament,” said Mrs Brett after the debate.

“We are really happy steps have been made and we are going in the right direction in stopping other families facing the same discrimination Sebby and many other children have experienced,” she said.

Mrs Baillie will present a 26,000 signature petition to parliament tomorrow asking for the government to look into the issue.