§ Mrs. Chalkerasked the Secretary of State for Trade what discussions he has had with the Chairman of the British Airports Authority concerning the re-
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§ Mr. Horam:The law contains sufficient provisions already to enable the police to prosecute where necessary. Section 72 of the Highways Act 1835 makes it illegal to ride on the footway, and this message is carried in the Highway Code in the part covering the law's demands for cyclists. In addition, under Sections 17 and 18 of the Road Traffic Act 1972 it is an offence for cyclists to ride in a reckless, dangerous, careless and inconsiderate manner.
The police do, however, have many duties to perform, and it is not surprising that they are not always able to enforce these particular laws. Indeed, many of those who ride on pavements are under 12 years of age and proceedings cannot be brought against them for summary offences.
I am content that local authorities are well aware of the problems and needs of cyclists in their area. The recent Transport Policy White Paper (Cmnd. 6836) stated the need for careful and comprehensive planning and management of urban transport and traffic to get the best balance in each area between conflicting demands of different sorts of movements, including cycles and pedestrians.