United Kingdom, June 30 -- Labour is preparing to legalise autonomous delivery robots on Britain's pavements, with ministers set to launch a consultation on plans that would formally allow the machines to operate on public walkways.

The robots, which are already used to deliver groceries and takeaways in cities including Sheffield, Leeds, Reading, Cambridge, Bristol and Milton Keynes, could be permitted to travel on pavements at speeds of up to 4mph.

Although the machines are already operating in parts of the UK, the legal position surrounding their use remains unclear. Ministers hope new legislation will remove that uncertainty and provide a framework for future deployment.

The proposals have prompted concern from campaigners, who war...