Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

The Pedicab Regulation Bill - Clause 1

19 November 2021 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Nickie Aiken Con Cities of London and Westminster

Policing & ResourcesStandards & Ethics

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Nickie Aiken raised concerns about the pedicab regulation bill - clause 1 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The Pedicab Regulation Bill aims to regulate pedicabs in London due to safety and fairness concerns.
  • Women's safety is at risk because pedicab drivers are not subject to background checks.
  • Tourists face issues such as overcharging by pedicab drivers compared to regulated services.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Nickie Aiken Con Cities of London and Westminster

I am bringing this Bill to regulate pedicabs as they are the only form of public transport in London that remains unregulated. Women's safety is at risk due to lack of driver checks, vehicle MOTs, and fare regulation. Tourists have been overcharged significantly compared to regulated services like Ubers and black cabs. Current legislation does not allow councils or police to effectively enforce regulations on pedicab drivers who often engage in antisocial behaviour. The proposed licensing regime would ensure drivers are safe, their vehicles comply with standards, and there is accountability for breaches of regulation. This Bill aims at fair and appropriate regulation of the industry, supporting good operators while tackling rogue elements.

Other contributors (2)
  • Nickie Aiken Con Cities of London and Westminster

    The Bill would regulate pedicabs to ensure drivers have licences, insurance, and training. It addresses issues like overcharging tourists (£380 for a £7 trip), noise pollution, safety concerns, and the lack of regard for disabled people. Constituents in Soho and Covent Garden are particularly affected by antisocial behaviour from rogue pedicab operators despite councils having limited enforcement powers.

  • Robert Courts Con Oxford West and Abingdon

    Supports the Bill to regulate London's unregulated pedicabs, which have been on the streets for about 30 years. Emphasises that the lack of regulation poses safety issues and affects tourists negatively.

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