§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will cause a study to be made, and publish it in the Official Report, of the reasons why the casualty rate for cyclists is increasing while that for most other modes of transport is tending to decline.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThis is a complex issue. Cyclists are vulnerable to increases in the volume of motor traffic and have benefited less than other road users from measures such as, for example, the development of the motorway network and of better protection for vehicle occupants involved in accidents. Possible improvements in the provision for and safety of cyclists will be discussed in the forthcoming consultation document on cycling.
§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Transport if his Department has studied the American Department of Transportation report "Bicycle Transportation for Energy Conservation"; whether he will institute such a study in respect of the United Kingdom; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWe have studied the report, which assesses the energy savings which might be derived from more extensive use of bicycles in the United States of America. We have been reviewing cycling policy with a view to encouraging greater use of bicycles and shall shortly be publishing a consultation document.
§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Transport if, in view of the fact that in the simulated traffic situations in the current edition of the Highway Code only one cyclist example occurs, he will take steps in future issues of the code to include more examples which reflect the high level of cycle ownership and use.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI shall bear this in mind when the text of the Highway Code is next revised.