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Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Hanningfield (Conservative). It was answered on Thursday, 16 October 2008.

Walking and Cycling

Question: My Lords, a lot has been said about cycling but not as much has been said about walking, although all the evidence shows that the amount of walking that people do is declining. I know what keeps me walking: it is my dog. Perhaps the Government should consider encouraging more people to keep dogs.

Answer: Perhaps or perhaps not, my Lords; there are pros and cons. Of course, it is absolutely vital that people feel safe when they are walking but Her Majesty’s Government have not seen it as a priority to teach people how to walk, so we give more emphasis to policy promoting cycling. If I were to publish a walking strategy document, it might be thought to be the ultimate example of the nanny state.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 704 c819
Session: 2007-08
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Subjects: Cycling Finance Local government Urban areas Walking
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk