Lords to debate on civilian drones

In its report entitled Civilian Use of Drones in the EU the House of Lords EU Sub-Committee on Internal Market warned that measures must be taken to keep on top of the huge rise in drone traffic, but also that the industry presents a massive opportunity to the UK and Europe.

Baroness O'Cathain, former chair of the Committee, will open the debate.

At the time of publication of the report, in March, she said:

“The growth in civilian drone use has been astonishing and they are taking to the skies faster than anyone could have predicted. We have a huge opportunity to make Europe a world leader in drone technology.

“But we also need to find ways to manage and keep track of drone traffic. That is why a key recommendation in the report is that drone flights must be traceable, effectively through an online database, which the general public could access via an app. We need to use technology creatively, not just to manage the skies, but to help police them as well.”

Ahead of the debate she added:

“There has been a huge amount of interest in the issue of civilian drones, in the media, among stakeholders and politicians across the EU, and I hope that during the debate on Tuesday we will hear some interesting views on the report as well as some useful contributions on the future of drones in general.”

The debate will be held in the Chamber of the House of Lords on Tuesday 8 September. It is expected to start after 5:00pm.

Members due to speak include:

• Lord Rosser, Shadow Spokesperson for Defence;
• Lord Whitty, Committee member and Vice President of Environmental Protection UK; and
• Lord Haskel and the Earl of Liverpool, former Committee members.

Lord Balfe, Lord Giddens and Lord Jay of Ewelme are also expected to take part.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon will respond on behalf of the Government.