HC Deb 21 December 1982 vol 34 cc467-8W
Mr. Dormand

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what action he is taking to ensure that the steps to implement good cycling practice by some local authorities are brought to the attention of all local authorities.

Mrs. Chalker

The Department disseminates advice on good practice through the regional cycling officers and the cycling advisory branch at headquarters. Both this central unit and the transport and road research laboratory publish reports and leaflets on the schemes in which they are involved, and participate in seminars and conferences.

Mr. Dormand

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has any plans to extend the television commercials designed to make drivers more aware of cyclists; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

Next year's road safety publicity programme has not yet been settled. I shall write to the hon. Member when the subjects for inclusion have been decided.

Mr. Dormand

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the progress made in converting disused railways to walkways and cycleways; and if he will state the mileage of such conversions since May 1979.

Mrs. Chalker

Information is not available centrally for the period before the publication of the report on disused railway conversion in February 1982. Since then, some 25 miles have been converted and work is in progress on a further 17 miles. Figures are not available for conversion solely for pedestrian use.

The consultant who carried out the study is being retained jointly by the Manpower Services Commission and the Department to advise local authorities and other interested bodies. Many schemes are under active consideration.

Mr. Dormand

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he is satisfied with the response of local authorities in including cycling proposals in the current year's transport policy programme submissions; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

The response was encouraging. Many counties included proposals, and these were taken into account in deciding the transport supplementary grant settlement for 1983–84.

Mr. Dormand

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will ensure that regional cycling officers take the initiatve in encouraging local authorities to implement Government cycling policies.

Mrs. Chalker

This is being done, but progress around the country inevitably depends on the differing levels of cycling activity and the past history of involvement by local authorities.