CONCERNS have been raised about dangers for horse riders with increasing numbers of quieter electric cars.

North Dorset MP Simon Hoare quizzed transport minister Jesse Norman MP on the matter in relation to what assessments had been made for the safety needs of horse riders on the public highway.

Mr Hoare asked if the issue around electric cars could be taken up with manufacturers.

"The rise of electric vehicles is, of course, environmentally welcome. However, their silence often presents a huge problem for riders, horses and, indeed, other road users as a result of the nervousness that is often caused in horses by these silent vehicles either going past or accelerating from a stop," said Mr Hoare.

Mr Norman said horse riders are recognised in the highway code, with the importance placed on the avoidance of close passing.

"At low speeds, vehicle type approval regulations will mandate sound generators on new electric and hybrid electric vehicles from July this year," said Mr Norman.

He added that the area was being reviewed by the Department for Transport.