§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what measures the Government have pursued since 1 May 1997(a) to promote the wider use of powered two-wheelers and (b) to improve their safety. [125453]
§ Mr. Hill[holding answer 12 June 2000]"A New Deal for Transport: Better for Everyone" recognised that there are circumstances in which mopeds and motorcycles can have a role to play in integrated transport. We have thus
established an Advisory Group on Motorcycling;advised local authorities to take account of the contribution powered two wheelers are making in delivering integrated transport policies.We have taken action to improve the safety of motorcyclists by:
making changes to the theory and practical driving tests—resulting better driving standards will benefit all vulnerable road users;announcing a package of measures for improving training and testing for riders of mopeds and motorcycles;since June 1999, requiring, along with EU partners, the design and construction of newly designed models of motorcycles to be approved and verified to appropriate safety and environmental standards;committing, in "Tomorrow's Roads: Safer for Everyone", to further measures that will improve the safety of motorcyclists over the next 10 years.The Highways Agency's new strategic plan for safety, "Making the Network Safer", includes actions to reduce risks to motorcyclists travelling on trunk roads and motorways.