Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether he plans to allow the use of electronic scooters on roads and cycle paths.

In the UK, it is illegal to use an electric scooter on public roads and pavements. Electric scooters are treated like any other motor vehicle under the Road Traffic Act. This means they are subject to laws requiring them to conform to technical standards and be used safely. This includes requirements for users to have insurance, driving licences, number plates, and helmets. At present, it is difficult for electric scooters to meet these requirements. They are legal for use on private land with the landowners’ permission.

The Department recognises that people want to take advantage of the opportunities e-scooters can offer. The Future of Mobility: Urban Strategy, published on 19 March 2019 includes a Regulatory Review to address the challenges of ensuring our transport infrastructure and regulation are fit for the future.

The regulatory review will include e-scooters and other micromobility devices. This is a broad programme of work, and we expect to publish an initial consultation in autumn this year.