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Written question asked by Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard (Ulster Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 July 2026 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Motability: Northern Ireland

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Northern Ireland Executive have the option not to implement the new criteria for Motability vehicles limiting the mileage a lessee can drive before incurring a charge.

Answer

From 1 July, new leases will include a mileage allowance of 10,000 miles a year – e.g. 30,000 over a three-year lease or 50,000 over a five-year lease. Three out of four Scheme customers drive 10,000 miles or fewer per year. However, Motability recognise that a small number of customers will be unable to change driving behaviour or absorb the mileage charges. On 8 July, Motability announced an exceptions process for those who exceed this new limit for some journeys made for healthcare, education and employment. The customer will need to evidence this extra mileage.

The Motability Scheme is operated independently of Government. Decisions about eligibility, lease terms, mileage allowances and support arrangements are matters for Motability. The Government's role is to provide qualifying disability benefits that customers may choose to use to access the Scheme.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1731
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Fees and charges Northern Ireland Motability
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk