Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Road Safety Strategy, published in January 2026, whether proposed new penalties for not wearing a seat belt will apply to passengers in a Hackney Carriage black cab in London.

As part of the Road Safety Strategy, the Department for Transport has published a public consultation on proposed changes to penalties for motoring offences, including seat belt usage. The consultation seeks views on strengthening sanctions for non‑compliance with seat belt requirements, including the potential introduction of penalty points, and additional penalty points for drivers who do not ensure child passengers are appropriately restrained.

No decisions have been taken, including on the detailed scope of any changes or how they would apply in practice. The consultation closes on 11 May 2026. Policy decisions will be taken after the consultation has closed and stakeholders’ views have been considered.