Lord Peter Hendy, the UK’s Rail Minister and former head of Transport for London, has reported himself to the Metropolitan Police after admitting to using his mobile phone while driving a vintage Routemaster bus during a charity tour in central London on March 28.
The incident occurred during rush hour as Lord Hendy was leading a tour for the Railway Family charity. A passenger observed him texting while driving and later filed a complaint with the police.
Initially, the Metropolitan Police found insufficient evidence to proceed with the case. However, after Lord Hendy voluntarily admitted to the offence, the investigation was reopened.
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving carries a penalty of six points on the offender’s driving licence and a £200 fine. In cases that go to court, the consequences can be more severe.
Lord Hendy expressed regret for his actions, stating that he was checking on a friend undergoing a cancer test at the time.
The Railway Family charity, which organized the bus tour, expressed regret that the event concluded under such circumstances.
As of now, there has been no decision on whether the incident will be referred to the Prime Minister’s adviser on ministerial standards.
Lord Hendy, 72, began his career as a London bus driver in 1975 and has since held various prominent positions in the UK’s transportation sector.
