§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will initiate studies, as part of his policy to minimise the increase in the person miles travelled in motor cars, into the means whereby the effects of the disadvantageous actions taken by British Railways in respect of passenger-accompanied pedal cycles, taken subsequent to the announcement made by it and the Cyclist Touring Club be eliminated, or minimised. [37328]
§ Mr. WattsNo. The carriage of cycles on trains is an operational matter for train operators, balancing cyclists' needs with those of ordinary passengers.
The franchising director intends to include a requirement in each franchise agreement that franchise operators shall, so far as reasonably practicable and subject to the availability of appropriate space on their rolling stock, ensure that facilities are made available for bicycles on trains at a reasonable, if any, charge to passengers.
The Cyclists' Public Affairs Group, with the assistance of the Department has produced a guidance document for rail operators "Bikes and Trains—Opportunities for the new operators"—foreword by John Watts) explaining how they can make their services more attractive to cyclists. The document includes advice on the carriage of cycle on trains and the provision of cycle facilities at stations.