Ban L-plate motorcyclists from commercial work, London Assembly urges

Motorcyclists holding provisional licences should be prohibited from operating commercially on London's roads, ministers have been informed. This follows a motion passed by the London Assembly last month, which also seeks to limit the duration of the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) qualification.

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Under current regulations, individuals can ride mopeds with a provisional licence after completing a one-day CBT course. This qualification is valid for two years and can be renewed indefinitely without requiring riders to pass a full driving test. Thomas Turrell, Conservative Assembly Member, described motorcyclists operating under these conditions as a "menace to the road".

Mr Turrell, who proposed the motion, stated that the CBT was designed for learning road knowledge, not for indefinite commercial use. He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that many delivery drivers are working on the roads with only this basic qualification, leading to dangerous behaviour such as mounting pavements. He added that there is no incentive for these riders to obtain a full licence.

Mayor's alignment with calls for reform

Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, shares concerns regarding the adequacy of the current CBT. He has previously stated his belief that the qualification is "not fit for purpose" and an insufficient standard for those driving for work. The Mayor's office noted that Transport for London (TfL) lacks the authority to mandate full licences for couriers, with such powers residing at a national level.

Government consultation underway

In response to the calls for reform, the Department for Transport confirmed it is analysing responses to a consultation on moped and motorcycle training. This consultation included proposals for reforms to CBT certification, with the aim of enhancing safety and modernising motorcycling practices. The department stated its intention to improve safety and modernise motorcycling.

Attempts to introduce legislative changes at a national level have been made previously. An amendment to the Crime and Policing Act earlier this year, proposed by Rebecca Paul MP, sought to ban learner moped drivers from commercial activities. This amendment was unsuccessful. Louie French MP commented that the government "has lost control of delivery drivers abusing the L plate system" and urged urgent action to ensure legal working practices and road safety.

Industry response and potential barriers

Mr Turrell identified potential opposition from major employers in the delivery sector, such as Just Eat, Deliveroo, and Uber, as a significant barrier to reform. A spokesperson for Just Eat stated that the company prioritises road safety and supports stronger regulation and enforcement, including requirements for moped riders to hold a full licence. Deliveroo and Uber Eats were contacted for comment.