§ Dr. Julian LewisTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what his policy is on(a) the inclusion of powered two-wheelers in the development of an integrated transport policy and (b) the development of a national motorcycle strategy. [R][121490]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Government's White Paper on the future of transport recognised motorcycling has a role to play in an integrated transport policy. It stated that motorcycling can provide an alternative means of transport for many trips, bring benefits to the individual including widening employment opportunities, and may offer benefits for the environment and congestion. It advised local authorities to take account of the contribution motorcycling can make and to consider specific measures to assist motorcyclists.
However the White Paper also acknowledged that the role of motorcycling in an integrated transport policy raises some important and complex issues. We have therefore established an Advisory Group on Motorcycling to address these issues. The key workstreams should be completed during 2004, when we intend to determine a strategy for motorcycling.