Context
The illegal modification and use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) is a concern in Edinburgh South West, affecting road safety. Dr Arthur has written to Just Eat requesting information on rider behaviour but received an unsatisfactory response.
Question
I thank the Minister for her response and for her written statement this morning on pavement parking. The illegal use of e-bikes by delivery companies is a matter of real concern for people in Edinburgh South West. I wrote to Just Eat this week, and it said in its reply that it could act only if I could tell them the rider’s name or the delivery order number. That is absolutely preposterous. It could proactively use its app to monitor rider behaviour. I fear that it is both exploiting the riders and exploiting the use of illegal e-bikes. If it will not act and be a responsible company, will the Government take action?
Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
I absolutely agree that delivery companies should be working to ensure that their drivers and riders remain safe and do not pose a danger to others. The Government’s road safety charter, the first in a decade, includes plans to pilot a national work-related road safety charter for businesses that require people to drive or ride for them. I will be making a statement on the strategy in this House later today. Clearly, we encourage delivery apps to sign up to that.
Not addressed: The Minister did not directly commit to taking specific action against companies refusing to address illegally modified e-bikes but mentioned encouraging them through a voluntary charter.
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