Written question asked by Lord Trimble (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Adonis (Labour) on Monday, 15 June 2009.

Ambulances

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they regard ambulances operated by the Red Cross or St John Ambulance and other voluntary ambulances as ambulances within the meaning of the Road Traffic Acts.

Answer: The Department for Transport cannot interpret the law authoritatively: that is a matter for the courts. However, road traffic law in respect of ambulances generally relates to the vehicle itself, for example its medical equipment, and how the vehicle is used, rather than to the organisation (whether voluntary or otherwise) operating it. Vehicle excise is an exception to this, as exemption depends on the specific organisation using the vehicle or keeping it on the road.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4066; 711 c168WA
Session: 2008-09
Subjects: Ambulance services Voluntary organisations Road traffic offences International Red Cross St John Ambulance
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk