House of Commons · Westminster Hall
25 April 2022 · 4 other contributors · 7,156 words
Opened by Nicholas Fletcher
Responding minister: Trudy Harrison
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Nicholas Fletcher raised concerns about vehicle tampering offences in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
I ask the Minister to clarify that vehicles used solely on racetracks are exempt from these new offences and to explore ways to protect the aftermarket industry while ensuring road safety.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
I am concerned about proposed new offences that would cover any individual who tampers with a vehicle on the road. These could adversely affect motorsports and classic car industries, impacting economic value and education opportunities for many people. The petition has gathered over 30,000 signatures, indicating significant public concern.
Highlights the issue of illegal modifications by boy racers in Pontypridd and Taff Ely, causing antisocial behaviour. Asks for more action to tackle this problem. My constituency has been affected by vehicles with illegally modified exhausts. Operation Buena was launched in response, issuing 12 speeding fines and 10 prohibition notices in a single night. More police resources are needed to address the issue.
Supports the debate's importance and raises concerns about potential impacts on classic car enthusiasts and motorsport events. Emphasises the need for clarification from the Government on how new rules would be implemented without harming the legitimate sectors. Suggests specific exemptions and legal protections for historic and classic vehicles. Mr Sunderland commended Mr Baker's speech and argued that the focus should be on prosecuting irresponsible driving rather than targeting legitimate vehicle owners. He agreed with the need to address antisocial behaviour caused by modified cars.
Mr Kane congratulated Gareth James for securing 112,000 signatures on a petition regarding vehicle tampering. He acknowledged the passion of Mr Baker's speech while also expressing concern about modified vehicles causing antisocial behaviour and safety issues in his constituency.
Mr. Baker expressed his love for driving and motor vehicles, opposing anti-tampering legislation that he believes will turn vehicles into 'black boxes' where drivers are disconnected from the vehicle's mechanics and experience. He described a negative experience with a Volkswagen ID4 self-driving car in Norway, emphasizing concerns about driver responsibility and personal freedom. Mr Baker intervened to stress the importance of prosecuting individuals who modify vehicles for dangerous driving, citing a personal near-miss incident. He urged that drivers exceeding speed limits by significant margins should face imprisonment.
Government Response
Trudy HarrisonThe Minister emphasised the Government's commitment to a regulatory regime fit for future transport needs while considering the scope of policy to ensure it does not prevent legitimate vehicle modifications. She acknowledged concerns from the consultation and assured Members that proposals would not restrict all forms of modification, particularly in motorsports and restoration. The Department is looking at ways to better monitor noise pollution and improve sound-monitoring devices. She addressed health risks associated with air quality, noting improvements since 2010 but highlighting remaining environmental risks. With increasing automation in vehicles, the Minister highlighted the necessity of powers to respond to advances in vehicle construction and operation to prevent dangerous modifications. The Government will publish a consultation response summarising received responses and outlining next steps this summer.