Trailer and Towing Safety

Opened the debate

In her speech, Karin Smyth highlighted the tragic death of Freddie Hussey in Bristol South due to a trailer that had broken free from a car. She campaigned for improved towing safety standards and acknowledged previous efforts by road safety Ministers such as Andrew Jones, Jesse Norman, Michael Ellis, Baroness Vere of Norbiton, and Mr Holden. The National Trailer and Towing Association introduced the first-of-its-kind initiative offering free safety checks on light trailers in 2017, and a statutory report published in 2019 found that half of all light trailers were non-compliant with safety standards, with 40% needing immediate repairs. She called for mandatory safety checks on trailers and formal testing for those using them, as well as revisions to the B+E test to ensure drivers are trained properly before towing.

Government Response

Guy Opperman acknowledged Karin Smyth's dedication to the cause of towing safety and praised her work with the all-party parliamentary group on trailer and towing safety. He confirmed that there will be a three-year review following legislation passed in November 2021, which was brought about due to the HGV driver shortage during covid. The Minister stated that evidence can be submitted in writing or in person to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), and all options are open for consideration in the review process. He also mentioned ongoing roadside vehicle checks and the industry-led accredited training scheme, as well as two surveys conducted by the DVSA in 2023. The Minister committed to examining the policy closely, gathering data, and ensuring effective communication of safety messages.