House of Lords debate on Self-driving Vehicles

The House of Lords debate on 19 June 2025 explored provisions for disabled passengers in the upcoming pilot schemes for self-driving vehicles.

The Institute recently reported on Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander confirming that the government will fast-track pilots to spring 2026, introducing self-driving commercial pilots on England’s roads.

The discussion, led by Baroness Brinton, raised critical concerns about whether accessibility features—such as wheelchair ramps and audio-visual announcements—would be built into the vehicles from the outset, rather than added retroactively. She cautioned that developing these features too late would mirror past mistakes, leaving disabled people with subpar accommodations.

Responding for the Government, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill emphasised that under current law, the Secretary of State must evaluate how autonomous services affect disabled and older passengers before issuing permits.

While accessibility requirements will not be formally legislated at this stage, non-statutory guidance and permit conditions will ensure accountability. He stressed the importance of allowing flexibility for innovation rather than locking in detailed regulations too early.

Hendy acknowledged that initial trials are likely to use existing vehicle designs, with bespoke, accessible models appearing later.

Baroness Griffin questioned broader government strategies for disabled passengers in all transport schemes.

In response, Lord Hendy pointed to ongoing consultations across transport modes and the challenges of retrofitting ageing infrastructure—especially on the 200-year-old rail network—but reaffirmed the commitment to inclusivity.

Lord Harper highlighted the opportunity for the UK to lead globally in autonomous vehicle technology and urged the Government to move swiftly and ambitiously, especially regarding accessibility.

Hendy agreed and noted that while current vehicles will predominate at first, medium-term plans involve purpose-built models catering to diverse needs.

Baroness Watkins shifted the focus to rural communities, asking whether licensing of autonomous vehicles would address chronic transport shortages.

Lord Hendy supported this view, noting that such technology could transform access to essential services in remote areas, particularly for ageing populations and those with limited mobility.

Baroness Pidgeon raised a legal concern, seeking clarity on liability in case of collisions involving self-driving vehicles.

Hendy assured peers that safety remains the “primary consideration and that global and national frameworks are evolving to address such issues, though he promised further written clarification on specifics.”