Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what responses have been received from delivery platforms following the Department’s letter on compliance with the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle Regulations 1983; and whether delivery platforms are expected to participate in the national work-related road safety charter.

The letters to the delivery platforms from the Department have been placed in the Library of the House. Responses were received from all three delivery platforms that were written to, and these provided a clear understanding of the requirements of the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle Regulations.

On 7 January, we published our new Road Safety Strategy, setting out our vision for a safer future on our roads for all. The Strategy sets an ambition target to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads by 65% by 2035.

The safety of anyone driving on our roads is a priority, and that includes those who drive for work. We have therefore announced as part of the strategy that we will pilot a voluntary National Work-Related Road Safety Charter for businesses that require people to drive or ride for them. The aim of the Charter is to help employers reduce work-related road risk and improve safety for all road users by promoting good practice, and to improve compliance with current legislation and guidance. It will include the use of e-bikes alongside other vehicles.

The pilot will run for two years and will be monitored and fully evaluated. The Government will develop this Charter in collaboration with business and industry, and it will be informed by existing schemes.