HC Deb 16 January 1989 vol 145 cc5-6
4. Mr. Riddick

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many motor cycle casualties there were in 1986 and 1987.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

Too many. In 1987, there were 45,807 casualties among users of two-wheeled motor vehicles, 12 per cent. fewer than the 52,280 casualties in 1986. It is encouraging that the casualty rate is falling. The numbers are also influenced by the reduced level of motor cycling.

Mr. Riddick

I commend my hon. Friend on those figures which show a continued downward trend in the number of motor cycle casualties. Does he still intend to introduce the statutory fitting of leg protectors? Is he aware that some members of the motor cycling fraternity are worried that such protectors could be counterproductive as they might, for example, restrict the ability of a rider involved in an accident to jump clear?

Mr. Bottomley

Perhaps it would have been better if I had found ways of making the issues more relevant during the past two years. We intend to work with the motor cycle industry on the development of leg protectors and research, but it is worth emphasising that 90 per cent. of motor cycle injuries occur in crashes at speeds of less than 40 miles per hour and normally involve hitting another vehicle. In those cases, throwing oneself away from a motor cycle does not help; it is too late.

It is critical that motor cyclists obtain training, that other road users look out for motor cyclists, rather than ignoring two-wheelers, whether motor bikes or bicycles, and that we get down the relative risks of motor cycling, which are far too high.

Mr. Higgins

Does my hon. Friend agree that there is perhaps further scope for legislation in this field, not least in respect of motor cycles weaving in and out of moving vehicles with very short distances between them? Is it not absurd that firms operating courier services should be allowed to employ people who have passed no test whatsoever?

Mr. Bottomley

The answer to my right hon. Friend's second question is yes; it is absurd. The idea that someone who has not demonstrated basic competence should be paid money for riding around on a motor bike with L plates strikes me as ludicrous and I hope that anyone employing such people will stop doing so.

The basic issue of motor cyclists weaving in and out is covered by the highway code and probably also by the law. My advice, especially to parents and people approaching motor cycling and moped age, is to make sure that they join the 30 per cent. who take training, rather than the 70 per cent. who do not, and to take advice from their motor cycle dealers, who are keen to give it.