Written question asked by Lord Bradshaw (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Wallace of Saltaire (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 23 April 2012.

Cyclists: Safety

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what cyclist safety requirements they consider necessary in the development of cycle hire schemes.

Answer: The provision of cycle hire schemes and the safety of any equipment is a matter for local authorities and scheme operators. However, the Government are taking steps to make cycling safer for everyone, whether using a hire bike or their own. For instance, we have recently announced that councils are now free to use Trixi mirrors at junctions and have also made it easier for local authorities to introduce 20 mph zones and limits more efficiently. The Department for Transport is also leading discussions at European level on improving standards for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) to help reduce accidents caused by poor visibility, We are also considering how to increase motorists' awareness of cyclists' issues. We have made the driving test more realistic and less predictable, and are considering how to improve training for drivers after they pass their test to help them develop their driving skills and knowledge. Every driving theory test includes six questions relating to cyclists or other vulnerable road users. We are also keen to look at how we can incorporate a greater degree of cyclist awareness in the driver certificate of professional competence for HGV drivers.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 16728; 736 c314WA
Session: 2010-12
Related items: Cyclists: Safety
Monday, 30 April 2012
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Cycling Hire services Safety
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk