§ Mr. Robert SymsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) when he intends to publish the findings of his Department's review of the use of motorised wheelchairs on the highway; [103736]
618W(2) what plans he has to introduce a requirement in law for compulsory third party insurance for users of motorised wheelchairs; and if he will make a statement; [103640]
(3) what representations his Department has received from (a) pedestrians and (b) motorists on the unsafe and dangerous use of motorised wheelchairs; and if he will make a statement. [103639]
§ Mr. JamiesonWe receive a wide range of correspondence about the use of motorised wheelchairs on the highway from disabled people themselves as well as from other pedestrians and motorists. A proportion of that correspondence is expressing concern about safety issues.
In response to these concerns I will shortly be launching a review of the law which currently governs the construction of these vehicles and their use on the highway. The review will cover the full range of issues that have been raised with the Department, including the case for compulsory insurance for the users of motorised wheelchairs. We will be seeking the views of users and all other stakeholders before drawing any conclusions about possible changes to current arrangements.
I will publish the results of the Review once it is complete, which I would hope to be later this year.