Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Janner of Braunstone (Labour). It was answered on Thursday, 14 December 2006.

Roads: Cyclists

Question: My Lords, I thank my noble friend for his Answer. Does he not agree that the law ought to be enforced against cyclists who ride at their own risk and at the risk of others, who rideat night without crash helmets, reflective clothingor adequate rear lighting? They are a danger to themselves and they create fear among honest, decent, careful drivers like myself, and no doubt like the person who drives the Minister around.

Answer: My Lords, certainly, honest, decent drivers such as my noble friend are assisted if cyclists are properly equipped with reflective clothing, and they should wear helmets for their own safety. In law, the only enforcement is having lights at night. We are concerned about cycling safety; that is why we put such a great emphasis on it with regard to school children and young people. The incidence of accidents at night is relatively low compared with accidents in daytime.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 687 c1617
Session: 2006-07
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Subjects: Cycling Enforcement Helmets Protective clothing Lighting Safety Roads Death Accidents Injuries
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk