UK Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy has apologized after admitting to using his mobile phone while driving a vintage double-decker bus through central London during rush hour. The incident, first reported by The Sunday Times, occurred on March 28 while Hendy was behind the wheel of his own Routemaster bus as part of a charity fundraiser.
A spokesperson for Lord Hendy confirmed the incident, stating: “Peter Hendy used his phone while driving. He has apologized fully for this error in judgment and has contacted the police.” Sources indicate he expects to face a penalty of six points on his license and a fine.
The minister was reportedly texting a friend about a prostate cancer test while navigating the bus during the evening rush hour. The event was organized by the Railway Benefit Fund, a charity supporting railway workers, of which Hendy is a patron. However, days later, a passenger reported the incident to the police.
Organizers of the fundraiser expressed regret over the situation, stating: “We do not condone unsafe practices, but we are not fully aware of all details and hope any investigation is conducted fairly. We thank Lord Hendy for his support and regret that an otherwise positive event ended this way.”
This is not the first time a government minister has faced penalties for phone use while driving. In 2022, then-Security Minister Tom Tugendhat (Conservative) was banned from driving for six months after accumulating 12 points six for phone use and six from prior offenses—along with a £1,000 fine.
The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for comment on the case.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
