Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Off-road Biking — [Mrs Pauline Latham in the Chair]

20 February 2024 · 6 other contributors · 9,909 words

Opened by Peter Gibson Con Darlington

Responding minister: Chris Philp

Policing & ResourcesCrime & Law EnforcementEnvironment

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Peter Gibson raised concerns about off-road biking — [mrs pauline latham in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Mr Peter Gibson expressed concern over misuse of off-road bikes and quad bikes in Darlington, citing antisocial behaviour and theft issues.
  • Mr Gibson asked the Minister to consider registering off-road bikes, introducing compulsory insurance, and requiring immobilisers to deter misuse.
  • The Minister called for strong enforcement of antisocial behaviour laws and mentioned 66 million in funding for hotspot patrolling.

Key requests to Government

Mr. Gibson asked the Minister for Home Office to consider ways of registering off-road bikes to deter misuse and make identification easier for law enforcement. He urged the introduction of compulsory insurance for these vehicles, mandated immobilisers by manufacturers, and investment in technology such as drones to track perpetrators more effectively.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Peter Gibson Con Darlington

Mr. Peter Gibson expressed concern about the misuse of off-road bikes and quad bikes in Darlington, where reckless bikers cause terror and fear among residents. He mentioned that there have been debates, parliamentary questions, and a private Member's Bill on this issue previously. The MP highlighted instances of antisocial behaviour such as driving through red lights, riding on pavements without lights, and wearing balaclavas to evade police detection. Mr. Gibson also noted the financial burden caused by vehicle thefts, with the National Farmers Union estimating costs at £3 million in 2022.

Other contributors (6)
  • Alex Norris Lab Co-op Nottingham North and Kimberley

    The MP expressed concern about the impact of off-road biking on communities, citing an incident where a 71-year-old woman was killed by a 14-year-old riding an e-scooter. He also highlighted issues related to antisocial behaviour and the need for better data collection to understand the extent of the problem.

  • Bill Wiggin Con North Herefordshire

    Congratulates the hon. Friend on securing a debate about off-road biking, questions whether antisocial behaviour is primarily urban and seeks assurance that legitimate users are not penalised alongside irresponsible ones.

  • Ian Paisley Jnr DUP North Antrim

    Ian Paisley Jr. discussed a scheme in Northern Ireland that brought together the Department of Justice, police, and motorcycle clubs to engage with wayward youth who use motorcycles or quads illegally. The programme aimed to teach young people motorcycling skills, bike maintenance, and the importance of road safety. He highlighted successful outcomes but also mentioned tragic incidents involving fatalities from illegal biking activities. Paisley emphasized that 1.5 million daily motorcycle riders and an additional 3.5 million motorcycle licence holders exist in the UK, underscoring the significance of addressing these issues.

  • Jill Mortimer Con Hartlepool

    Ms Mortimer is concerned about the prevalence of off-road bikes in Hartlepool and Teesside, citing issues such as noise pollution, lack of insurance and licensing, and potential safety risks. She shares constituent stories of illegal bike use causing property damage and sleep disruption. Ms Mortimer suggests compulsory insurance and regulating the sale of these bikes to curb their misuse. Jill Mortimer supports Peter Gibson's point, noting her experience as a farmer where farm equipment is typically insured even if used on roads occasionally. She suggests the impact of registration would be minimal for farmers.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Mr Jim Shannon discussed the legitimate and illegitimate use of quads, emphasizing their importance for farming and land maintenance. He highlighted issues such as damage to crops and property by irresponsible users, advocating for stricter regulations and fines. Shannon also mentioned his support for safety measures like roll bars on quads after a tragic accident involving a friend. He called for additional funding from the Government to provide suitable facilities for organised events and sports.

  • Nick Smith Lab Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney

    In Blaenau Gwent, a regional roundtable involving MPs, local councillors, farmers, and bike riders is addressing the issue of illegal off-road bikers. The MP asks what police powers can be employed to tackle this problem and inquires about the necessity of registration for better management.

Government Response

Chris Philp

Called for strong enforcement of antisocial behaviour, particularly off-road biking. Mentioned the power to seize vehicles used antisocially under section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 and urged police forces to use this power fully. Highlighted £66 million in extra funding for hotspot patrolling over the next financial year. Advocated for pursuing ATVs and off-road bikes to deter criminal activity, and discussed potential technological solutions such as drones and facial recognition. Discussed upcoming amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill regarding face coverings and balaclavas, and referenced the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023 to address theft of ATVs.

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