Driving Dilemmas: Rail Minister Caught Texting While at the Wheel

In a stunning admission, Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy has acknowledged using his mobile phone while driving a vintage double-decker bus during busy rush hour in London. The incident occurred on March 28, when Hendy was driving the iconic Routemaster bus for a charity event and was reportedly texting a friend. This revelation first came to light through the Sunday Times.

Following the event, a spokesperson confirmed that Hendy has fully accepted responsibility for this lapse in judgment and has reached out to the police regarding the matter. Reports suggest he is prepared for the consequences, which may include accumulating six points on his driving licence and facing a fining penalty.

The incident attracted attention when it became known that he was communicating about a personal health issue, specifically a prostate cancer test. However, one of the passengers on the bus made a report to the police shortly after witnessing his behavior.

The Railway Family Fundraiser’s organizers expressed their concerns, stating that they do not support unsafe practices, but also noted their desire for a fair investigation into the situation. They acknowledged their disappointment that what was supposed to be a fun and meaningful event ended on such a controversial note, while also expressing gratitude for Lord Hendy’s involvement in their fundraising efforts.

Notably, this incident is not isolated; it echoes previous instances of government officials facing penalties for similar infractions. For example, former security minister Tom Tugendhat faced a six-month driving ban in 2022 for a similar violation, which included hefty fines and points on his driving record.

As the Metropolitan Police are contacted for comments, this situation raises serious questions about the implications of using mobile devices while driving, especially for public officials.