To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he plans to update the Highway Code.

I am aware that in Britain a substantive update to the Highway Code was made in 2022. The most significant change was the introduction of Hierarchy of Users. The intended objective of the Hierarchy was to enhance the safety of those considered to be the most vulnerable road users.

At the time, I understand that the Department for Transport undertook a very substantial publicity campaign, at a cost of more that £2million, to promote public awareness of the changes. Statistics are not yet available to demonstrate whether the changes have been effective in reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured.

Locally, I will consider any initiatives that can improve road safety. However, taking a similar approach here would require significant research and development, stakeholder engagement and public consultation. Thereafter, in the event that a hierarchy of road users was to be adopted, a significant ring-fenced budget would be required to deliver an effective public information campaign.