Cities of London & Westminster MP, Nickie Aiken, made the case for our pedicabs licensing scheme during the debate in the Commons on the Pedicabs (London) Bill.
The debate, known as its Second Reading, came following the Bill's completion of all stages through the House of Lords this month. It now proceeds to the Committee Stage before moving on to its final stages.
Nickie has left no stone unturned in securing this Bill. She brought forward her own Private Members' Bills, constantly highlighted the need for regulation with Ministers, and ensured our voice was heard in the very heart of Government. It was clear we needed Government time in Parliament, and working together, Nickie secured it with His Majesty The King announcing a pedicabs Bill in November.
From your stories, your experiences, and whilst out and about across our neighbourhoods, Nickie has seen how desperately we need the licensing scheme. Whether it's to end the blaring music which can go on until the very early hours of the morning, stop the pavements from being blocked by riders who park there, or prevent another story of a tourist or visitor being charged hundreds of pounds for a journey that lasts just a few minutes. Our licensing scheme will put an end to the horror stories.
Transport for London will administer the licensing scheme similarly to how they administer licenses for black cabs and private hire vehicles. Our licensing scheme will also require drivers and their vehicles to undertake proper checks to confirm they are fit and proper to take passengers.
Nickie is working with TfL to have the scheme up and running as swiftly as possible, hopefully by the summer.
