Written question asked by Bob Spink (Conservative) on Friday, 22 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 November 2004. It was answered by Caroline Flint (Labour) on Tuesday, 2 November 2004 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether he intends to change the guidance he gives to the police in respect of cycling on pedestrian footways; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he intends to change the guidance he gives to the police in respect of cycling on pedestrian footways; and if he will make a statement. [193504] Caroline Flint: Chief officers of police are best placed to assess the nature and cause of cycling offences locally and to decide the most appropriate response. The Government do not condone irresponsible cycling and will continue to promote safe behaviour on bicycles. To help the police with enforcement we have made it possible for Community Support Officer (CSOs) appointed under the Police Reform Act 2002 to issue £30 fixed penalty notices for cycling inconsiderately or irresponsibly on pavements. The cycling infrastructure and environment are currently under improvement as a result of our National Cycling Strategy. We expect this improvement to reduce the incentive to cycle on the pavement.

Secondary information