§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions by what means he plans to deliver his target of quadrupling cycling by 2012; and if he will make a statement. [65679]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe target of quadrupling the number of trips by bicycle (on 1996 figures) by the end of 2012, was established by the National Cycling Strategy (NCS). In the White Paper "A New Deal for Transport" published last year, we endorsed that target and recognised the positive contribution that cycling can make towards a transport system that is safe, efficient, clean and fair. The Department requires local authorities as part of their local transport plans to establish local cycling strategies which will contribute to the target of increased cycle use. We will continue to offer guidance to authorities on policy and technical issues, and to work in partnership with other organisations in achieving the NCS objectives.