The Department of Infrastructure is proposing to modernise aspects of the Isle of Man’s road transport laws as part of its efforts to enhance public safety and reduce bureaucracy.

A consultation has been launched to invite feedback on the Road Transport Legislation (Amendment) Bill 2016.

The Bill is intended to update existing legislation, to streamline administration processes and to clarify requirements regarding the safe operation of commercial goods vehicles. It sets out revised provisions to deal with a range of issues, including vehicle duty and exemptions, registration plates and trade plates, and the powers to seize forged licences. The proposed changes would make it easier to remove unlicensed vehicles from public roads, as well as simplify the registration of private hire vehicles.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: ‘The Department is currently progressing several strands of legislation with the common goal of improving road safety and cutting red tape for business, for the public and for Government.’

John Houghton MHK, Member of the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for Highway Services, added: ‘The Bill will provide for the better regulation of vehicles and drivers and ensure the haulage industry and the public are safer as a result. I would encourage people to let us know their views by responding to the consultation.’

The consultation document is available to view on the Government website at https://www.gov.im/consultations.gov and submissions can be emailed to doiconsultation@gov.im or posted to Chris Hannon, Department of Infrastructure, Sea Terminal Buildings, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2RF.

The deadline for responses is Friday 4 March.