Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

E-scooters: Antisocial Use

08 December 2022 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Jessica Morden Lab Newport East

TransportCommunity Security

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jessica Morden raised concerns about e-scooters: antisocial use in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Jessica Morden highlighted the issue of illegal and antisocial use of e-scooters in her constituency, affecting residents' safety and quality of life.
  • She noted that there are around 750,000 private e-scooters in the UK used illegally, causing concerns among residents due to dangerous riding habits.
  • The Minister emphasized ongoing collaboration with police forces and regulatory measures such as fines up to 300, impounding vehicles, and licence penalties.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Jessica Morden Lab Newport East

Jessica Morden highlighted the significant issue of illegal and antisocial use of e-scooters in her constituency, affecting constituents' safety and quality of life. She noted that while globally valued at over £15 billion annually, there are around 750,000 private e-scooters in the UK used illegally, causing concerns among residents regarding dangerous riding habits such as speeding, running red lights, weaving through traffic, and lack of adherence to pedestrian safety. The speech detailed specific examples shared by constituents illustrating their fear, intimidation, and discomfort due to these actions. She emphasised that road traffic offences, driver licensing, vehicle insurance, and registration are reserved for the UK Government, while other aspects fall under Welsh devolved policy making. Morden stressed the need for better regulation of private e-scooters, pointing out issues related to their speed, power, and weight compared to rental trial models. She also addressed concerns around safety, particularly for those with hearing or visual impairments, noting that many e-scooter users are unaware of legal restrictions. She called on the Government to improve public awareness, ensure police resources, and provide mechanisms for reporting dangerous use.

Other contributors (1)
  • Jesse Norman Con Hereford and South Herefordshire

    Acknowledged the complexity of regulating new transport technologies but emphasised the importance of ensuring safe usage. Noted that the Government accelerated e-scooter trials due to pandemic-related needs, establishing rules for speed limits, licensing requirements, and pavement restrictions. He highlighted successful cooperation between operators and cities to reduce nuisance from discarded rental scooters and mentioned ongoing evidence gathering until May 2024.

Government Response

Jessica Morden

Jessica Morden responded to the debate, noting the importance of balancing safety with innovation in transport. She acknowledged that technology and incentives alone cannot address antisocial use but stressed the need for consistent enforcement across regions. The Minister highlighted ongoing collaboration between her department and police forces, as well as regulatory measures including fines up to £300, impounding vehicles, and licence penalties. She emphasised the responsibility of retailers in advising customers about legal restrictions and ongoing market surveillance efforts. While noting 31 million safe journeys during trials, she also reported four deaths and safety concerns involving both rental and illegal private e-scooters, underscoring the need for enforcement to reduce dangerous behaviour.

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