Richard Littlejohn: Time to Scrap the Motability Scheme Over Misuse and Waste!

The Motability scheme, initiated in 1977 to provide essential transportation for the genuinely disabled, now accounts for one in five new cars sold in Britain. Last year, 815,000 people benefited, reflecting a dramatic rise in claims, including mental health issues and obesity, often with questionable eligibility. Critics highlight the ease of system exploitation, from luxury cars acquired by questionable claimants to viral TikTok videos flaunting these exploits. With a staggering £7 billion turnover and significant taxpayer funding, Motability’s management faces scrutiny over its high executive salaries and the scheme’s ongoing abuse. As reform discussions emerge, the focus must shift to ensuring support genuinely aids those in need, rather than enabling luxury for the unscrupulous.