HC Deb 02 February 1988 vol 126 cc526-7W
Mr. Holt

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to publish the results of research into the effect on motor cycling of the Transport Act 1981 and on the effectiveness of a one-day training course for learner motor cyclists; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

Tomorrow we will be publishing two reports: TRRL research report RR1O6 — "The Effect on Motorcycling of the 1981 Transport Act" and TRRL contractors report CR56—"An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a One-Day Training Programme for Learner Motorcyclists". Copies will be placed in the Library.

We shall also be announcing the Government's plans for improving motor cycling safety, in the light of these reports and of the consultation exercise in 1986. The proposals should make a significant reduction in the appalling accident rate of motor cylists, particularly amongst the young and inexperienced riders. Our proposals are:

  1. (a) Replace the present part 1 off-road test of machine handling skills with a compulsory one-day training course, which includes road survival skills, for all new riders of motor cycles and mopeds. Successful completion of the course will be a prerequisite to the issue of provisional motor cycle and moped licences.
  2. (b) At present the on-road (part 2) L test is conducted by a driving examiner following the candidate on foot. In future the driving examiner will accompany the candidate on another vehicle which will permit a more thorough testing in traffic conditions, making it comparable to the test for learner car drivers.
  3. (c) Learner riders will be prohibited from carrying pillion passengers.
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  4. (d) A licence category for motor cycles in excess of 400cc will be introduced. Progress to the larger machines will be dependent on a rider having two year's riding experience on a full licence.
  5. (e) New holders of full driving licences will no longer have automatic entitlement to ride a moped or provisional entitlement to ride a learner motor cycle.

We shall consult further on the value of reducing the validity of the provisional motorcycle licence from two years to one. If the L test were not taken within that year, a new licence could not be applied for till a year later.

A copy of the full proposals will be placed in the Library of the House.