Cyclists (Hansard, 6 February 1995)

§ 3. Mr. Hinchliffe
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will outline steps taken to improve the safety of cyclists.

§ Mr. Norris
Fatalities to cyclists are at their lowest since records began in 1927. We shall continue the improvement by means of education, publicity, research and advice to local authorities on cycling matters.

§ Mr. Hinchliffe
Is it not true that the Government do not take cycling seriously, despite the fact that it is the most environment-friendly and healthy form of transport? Is the Minister aware that modern traffic conditions frequently result in the rights of cyclists as road users being totally ignored? When did he last have an invigorating ride on a bike? Will he get out of his chauffeur-driven ministerial car and experience for himself the conditions that cyclists face on the roads every day?

§ Mr. Norris
I contemplated and instantly rejected a number of answers to that question. I shall confine myself to agreeing with the hon. Gentleman. Cycling has been hugely undervalued for many years. Ironically, because it was potentially dangerous, we said that we would discourage people from doing it, whereas many other countries have proved that, if one creates safe cycling conditions, one can greatly improve urban transport and encourage people to do something that is healthy for them and for the environment, so there is much in what the hon. Gentleman said. That is why we have committed £3 million to taking the cycling programme forward in 4 London, and why we are stressing the importance that we attach to cycling in transport policy and programme guidance.

§ Sir Terence Higgins
Has my hon. Friend noticed the extraordinarily suicidal tendencies of London cyclists, who ride around with no form of illumination at night? Once upon a time, the police would have stopped such people immediately. What measures does he propose to prevent that from happening, as it is grossly unfair on motorists who have to try to avoid such cyclists?

§ Mr. Norris
My right hon. Friend touches on an important point because there can be no excuse for cyclists not abiding by the principles of road safety, which are there entirely for their personal safety. They do cycling no good service. It is an extraordinary proposition that they can afford several hundred pounds for very expensive bicycles and even more expensive clothing, which is apparently de rigueur, but cannot afford a front light.