PARENTS should be banned from using four-wheel-drive vehicles to bully their way through the school-run traffic, an MP said yesterday.

Norman Baker, the Liberal Democrat environment spokesman, said that the vehicles, designed for use in the countryside, were dangerous, intimidating and bad for the environment.

Tests have shown that the large “bull bars” that act as bumpers on some models lead to an increased death rate for pedestrians and, in collisions with small cars, they are up to six times more likely to kill the occupants of the smaller vehicle.

Mr Baker said that manufacturers should be more responsible in their marketing of the cars, known pejoratively as “Chelsea tractors”, to town dwellers. “Manufacturers have identified that there are only so many vehicles they can sell to farmers and others who would legitimately use such vehicles,” he said. “The slogans which they are using to sell their vehicles are aimed at urban users. There are real questions whether or not someone needs a 2½-tonne, 22-gallon vehicle to nip down to Tesco or take the kids to school.

“The consequences of ever-increasing use of these vehicles means that other road users often feel intimidated. Pedestrians and cyclists certainly do; use of fossil fuels increases dramatically; and our small urban towns, particularly historic towns, are being overwhelmed in some cases by these vehicles.”

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said the vehicles were becoming “an easy target for political opportunists”. Al Clarke, a spokesman, said: “There is a danger of victimisation here. First it was White Van Man, now it is off-road drivers. What’s next? Sports car owners? Drivers of soft-tops? People have to choose the best way to get around in built-up areas.”

Edmund King, executive director of the RAC Foundation, said: “Individuals should be free to choose a vehicle, but we would advise people to think about the appropriateness of their vehicle. A 4x4 is probably not the best vehicle for getting around town. It is harder to park and harder to navigate through narrow streets, but there should be no ban on such vehicles.”

Paul Watters, head of roads and transport at the AA, said: “Although some see off-roaders as a fashion accessory, their use should not be restricted and they are very suitable for large families.”

The Institute of Advanced Motorists said: “While any car is potentially a lethal weapon if driven badly, 4x4 drivers need to be particularly careful when they are around vulnerable road users because of the vehicle’s weight, the higher centre of gravity and handling characteristics.”

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