§ Jim DowdTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to reduce the level of accidents and injuries among cyclists aged 16 years and under; and if he will include the compulsory wearing of safety helmets. [155220]
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§ Mr. JamiesonWe have a safer cycling programme, which applies both to cyclists aged 16 and under, and older cyclists. This package of measures includes improved infrastructure—better cycle routes, off road cycle tracks, cycle lanes, advance stop lines, toucan crossings etc.; better driving standards and advice for cyclists, for example we are encouraging better facilities for cyclists and improving training and testing for motorists. It also covers the promotion of measures which cyclists can take to protect themselves, such as taking cycle training, making themselves conspicuous and wearing a cycle helmet.
Measures specifically aimed at younger cyclists include a Cycle Sense campaign. This is aimed at teenagers and was launched on 21 May last year. It encourages teenagers to wear cycle helmets and consists of posters and a Cycle Sense website. For younger cyclists we also produce "Arrive Alive"—a Highway Code for young road users, and we have also worked in partnership with Disney, using their "Recess" characters to promote safer cycling for children through "Cycle Smart" comics and posters. These are available free through local authority road safety officers.
Our position on compulsion has been that at current wearing rates it would cause enforcement difficulties and could have an effect on cycling levels. But the Government will keep their policies in this as in all areas under review in the light of discussion in Parliament and elsewhere.