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Off-Road Vehicles (Compulsory Registration) Bill
19 April 2024
Lead MP
Anne McLaughlin
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
Crime & Law Enforcement
Other Contributors: 11
At a Glance
Anne McLaughlin raised concerns about off-road vehicles (compulsory registration) bill in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Bill aims to introduce a compulsory registration scheme for off-road vehicles, such as quad bikes and motorbikes, to reduce antisocial behaviour and improve safety. It is in honour of Davie Gow who was killed by an off-road vehicle. The scheme would require identifying marks on each vehicle similar to car registration plates, which could help prevent theft, aid the police in tracking down culprits, and deter improper use. Anne McLaughlin has consulted widely with constituents who support the Bill due to issues such as noise, safety concerns for children and older people, and damage to public spaces.
Patrick Grady
SNP
Glasgow North
Supports the Bill, stating that a registration scheme would help track down vehicle owners more easily, allowing justice to be done for victims of accidents involving off-road vehicles. Acknowledges the work of Scottish Parliament colleague Bob Doris on this issue.
South Ribble
Compliments Anne McLaughlin for bringing forward the Bill and identifies a similar issue in Leyland where she experienced antisocial behaviour from off-road vehicles. Suggests that those using such vehicles should think carefully before doing so.
Guy Opperman
Con
Hexham
Welcomes the debate and commits to setting up a taskforce with Home Office stakeholders to address the issue of significant antisocial behaviour committed by off-road vehicles, building upon recent ASB work.
Peter Gibson
Con
Broadland
Supports the Bill as it addresses a common problem in many constituencies. Praises Anne McLaughlin for her engagement with the Minister and highlights that a compulsory registration scheme would provide a deterrent to those seeking to abuse their vehicles.
Jerome Mayhew
Con
Broadland and Fakenham
I support the amendment, which I believe will help enforce existing antisocial behaviour laws more effectively. In my constituency, such vehicles have caused significant security concerns and increased costs for businesses. The current legislation already grants police sufficient powers to stop and seize offending vehicles but requires better enforcement. Requiring registration plates would act as a deterrent to this kind of antisocial activity.
Anne McLaughlin
SNP
Glasgow North East
While the amendment may apply only in England and Wales, it could serve as a preventive measure. By ensuring vehicles display registration plates, the police would need to intervene just once before seizing offending vehicles. This could help reduce antisocial behaviour by focusing enforcement efforts on those who repeatedly engage in such activities.
Guy Opperman
Con
Erskine, Renfrewshire South and Inverclyde
I support the need for safe locations where young people can enjoy off-road vehicles appropriately. The example of North Antrim's pilot project demonstrates that education on proper usage and designated areas can effectively address antisocial behaviour while providing a constructive outlet for youth energy.
Patrick Grady
Lab
Glasgow North
Echos the lead MP's position, recognising her work on this issue over many years and extending condolences to David Gow's family. He highlights various concerns such as near misses, injuries, pollution, noise issues, illegal activities like joyriding, crime evasion, transport of illicit substances, and pedestrian safety. Emphasises that the proposed reforms would promote responsible use and provide police with additional powers, making it easier to track vehicles used improperly.
Peter Gibson
Con
Darlington
Mr Gibson strongly supports the Bill, citing safety concerns from misuse of off-road vehicles. He notes that registration will help reduce terrorising of streets and enable better police response. He also mentions a voluntary scheme in place but calls for more comprehensive measures.
Guy Opperman
Con
Hexham
Mr Opperman supports the Bill, suggesting it is worthy and that he would be delighted to visit Darlington to see issues firsthand. He agrees to work with the Policing Minister on this issue.
Danny Kruger
Reform
East Wiltshire
Mr Kruger waives his place in debate and asks for the taskforce to review legislation concerning green lanes and off-road vehicles, aiming to protect these tracks from damage.
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Assessment & feedback
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