Written question asked by Huw Irranca-Davies (Labour) on Friday, 29 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 November 2004. It was answered by Alun Michael (Labour) on Monday, 8 November 2004 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what examples of best practice are available to (a) local authorities and (b) police authorities on (i) making provision for off-road motorcycles and (ii) tackling irresponsible off-road motorcycling. (Guide in Library Dep 04/1820). - Inc ref to "Making the Best of Byways", copies in Library.

Answer: Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what examples of best practice are available to (a) local authorities and (b) police authorities on (i) making provision for off- road motorcycles and (ii) tackling irresponsible off-road motorcycling. [195779] Alun Michael: The departmental publication, "Making the Best of Byways", provides advice and practical examples to local authorities on managing mechanically propelled vehicles on byways and includes guidance on identifying suitable off-road sites. The Department is currently working on a comprehensive revision to the document. We are preparing new enforcement guidance for both police authorities and local authorities to help them deal with inappropriate and illegal use of motor vehicles off road. The guidance will set out the extensive statutory powers already available to deal with misuse and will draw on existing best practice examples of police and local authorities working in successful partnerships. Copies of "Making the Best of Byways" have been placed in the House Library. The revised document and new enforcement guidance will be available next year.

Secondary information