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Written question asked by Steff Aquarone (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 9 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 July 2026 (named day). It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Friday, 17 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Motability Scheme: Coastal Areas and Rural Areas

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether his Department has had discussions with Motability Operations on whether the additional mileage support criteria for the Motability Scheme adequately supports the travel requirements of disabled people and carers in rural and coastal areas.

Answer

Responsibility for the terms and administration of the Scheme sits with Motability Foundation and its Board of Governors. Department officials and Motability meet regularly to review the Scheme and how it operates to ensure it meets the needs of disabled people

After careful consideration of customer's needs, Motability has announced that from 1 July 2026, customers who need significantly more travel than the standard mileage allowance for essential healthcare, education or employment journeys may be eligible for additional mileage support. Customers must demonstrate they require more than 3,000 miles a year for these purposes, with support applied to approved miles above that threshold through reduced excess mileage charges, while leisure and holiday travel is excluded. Support can be requested when ordering a vehicle or during a lease, with eligibility assessed based on individual circumstances and supporting evidence.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
17541
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Coastal areas Motability scheme Rural areas
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk