MSPs launch inquiry into e-bike and e-scooter crime and antisocial behaviour

MSPs are to investigate whether police and other authorities have the powers they need to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour involving e-bikes and e-scooters.

Holyrood's Criminal Justice Committee will look at the scale of the problem, its causes and impact, and how it can be enforced and prevented. Members plan to hear from frontline workers, communities and people with lived experience.

Committee convener David Linden said the issue was negatively affecting communities across Scotland, and that there were concerns existing measures may not be enough.

142 seized in one week

Police Scotland has seized a growing number of illegal e-bikes and e-scooters in recent years. During a week of action starting on 19 October, officers seized 142, all of which will be destroyed.

What is the law?

E-bikes can be ridden legally on public roads only if the motor stops helping above 15.5mph and has a maximum power output of 250 watts. Anything more powerful counts as a motor vehicle, meaning the rider needs a full driving licence, an approved helmet and insurance.

Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements and other public spaces in Scotland. They can only be used on private land with the landowner's permission.

Westminster powers

Community safety minister Kirsten Oswald said the Scottish Government wants police to have more power to seize and keep e-bikes and e-scooters used for antisocial or criminal behaviour. She said road traffic law and rules on imports and sales are reserved to Westminster, and the government has written to the UK Government urging action on licensing off-road vehicles.

A UK Government spokesperson said privately owned e-scooters remain illegal on roads and pavements, that new laws are being brought forward, and that illegal e-bikes capable of dangerous speeds have no place on roads or pavements.