Calls to lift UK Segway ban

Peers in the House of Lords have called on the government to lift the ban on the use of Segways on public roads and pavements in the UK.

The Segway devices are allowed in many US states but are currently banned on UK roads because of safety fears.

But peers in the House of Lords called on the government to review its Segway ban, arguing the devices are safe to use, environmentally friendly and could help police.

Lord Redesdale said: "I tried one of these machines 20 minutes ago… It took me a few minutes to learn how to use it and I was very impressed with it. The vehicle's safety mechanism was particularly good and was demonstrated by the fact that I drove straight at the noble Earl, Lord Attlee (with his consent) and failed to do him any damage at all -- unfortunately!"

The Earl of Glasgow added: "It is no more dangerous than bicycling, and a lot more fun, I can tell you. It is technically innovative, self-balancing, carbon-free and ideal for travelling distances of two to five miles -- journeys that people usually now take by car."

But transport minister Lord Bassam of Brighton said there is still a question-mark over the safety of the devices on public roads and that a German police force had discovered seven major, serious incidents involving the devices.

He said: "There is a serious safety issue, which I do not think one can take lightly. We must always be mindful of safety issues -- this government have a good record on road safety -- and there are serious concerns; no doubt other jurisdictions have made such discoveries."

Lord Bassam said that while there are currently no plans to lift the Segway ban, it is under review and the government is looking at a number of trials elsewhere.