Tory Peer calls for phone ban for Cyclists and E-Bikes

Ministers have been told to apply a ban on mobile phones for cyclists and users of e-bikes, similar to that which applies for drivers.

Speaking about a close encounter with a cyclist at the houses of parliament, Conservative peer Baroness McIntosh of Pickering, called for the government to update the law.

Former minister Lady McIntosh questioned why 'Rule 149' forbidding use of mobile phones whilst driving, did not apply to cyclists and other road users. She said: "As I was walking into the House today, midway across the pedestrian crossing, I was approached by a cyclist on his phone, on the wrong side of the road. It wasn't clear whether he was going to stop or not."

Green peer Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb said, "Cars are the biggest problem on the roads" but also criticised a 'tiny minority' of cyclists that do not obey the law. Lady McIntosh said to the transport minister, "e-scooters, e-bikes and cyclists are using handheld phones, I would like to understand why the Department for Transport has not addressed this issue."

Transport minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton told peers: "To put the record straight, if the use of an e-scooter does fall under the regulations, then it is an offence to use a mobile phone. They can be fined and also get six penalty points."

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