Disabled drivers are being warned that their blue badges may not be accepted in European holiday destinations this summer due to an “outrageous” Brexit hangover.
Various media organisations report that Ministers are still negotiating with 11 nations on the status of UK blue badges, which were recognised across the EU until the country left the union two years ago.
ITV.com says that according to the government France, Spain, Portugal, Greece and Italy are among the countries still “undecided” about whether UK blue badges will be recognised. It adds that the others are Iceland, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Romania and Slovenia.
The media quote The AA as saying that it is “simply unacceptable” to keep disabled drivers in “limbo” and leave them at risk of parking fines if they use their permits in these countries.
ITV.com says the government has told badge-holders to “check with the embassy of the country you are travelling to for the latest developments”. However The AA responded that consulates had insisted they could not issue advice to disabled drivers until an agreement was reached.
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, told the media: “To keep blue badge users in limbo is simply unacceptable. Blue badges are issued because of specific health reasons, and to not have their status confirmed two years down the line is simply outrageous.
“Rather than take a chance, we would encourage blue badge users to use drop-off and collection zones where possible while the car is parked in a non-disabled bay.
“While problematic, it reduces the risk of a vehicle being given a ticket or towed away. While the government website asks blue badge users to ask the consulates for further advice on if their blue badge would be accepted, most could not provide any assurances or advice to the AA.
“Both the UK government and the 11 European nations yet to ratify the status of UK-issued blue badges need to resolve the matter urgently and provide clarity for all concerned.”
A Department for Transport spokesperson responded: “Negotiations on Blue Badge recognition are ongoing between the UK and individual EU states, and motorists should check our guidance to find out where the Blue Badge is recognised in the EU.”
