Lobby of Parliament March 15 2001

Before the 1997 election Labour had promised to get 'bike to basics' and to put motorcycles at the 'heart of transport policy'. Despite the creation of the Government Advisory Group for Motorcycling, and recent sales increases of mopeds and motorcycles, those attending were concerned that this policy had not yet materialised. A Mass Lobby of MPs was to remind the Government of their commitment to the increasing numbers of people who have already chosen to benefit from adopting the two-wheel transport option.

Leading a sunny morning photoshoot on College Green, Westminster, ex-Neighbours actor and Suzuki Bandit rider Stefan Dennis highlighted the concerns of the UK's million-plus riders to an unusually attentive media by reminding them of the continuing lack of consideration of motorcycles in UK transport policies.

Honda Goldwing owner Peter Russell, the centre of attention due to the sheer size and presence of his machine, explained to radio, TV, newspaper and specialist reporters how even the largest motorcycles would offer advantages over the private car. How could anyone not appreciate the luxury offered by his choice of transport? Especially as he could arrive warm and dry wearing a business suit under his heated clothing but still park in the smallest space!

At the other end of the two wheel spectrum Piaggio 'Zip' and 'X9' scooters were proving to a documentary TV film crew just how versatile they are by beating the traffic whilst a posse of politicians, including Hazel Blears (Lab), Lembit Opik (Lib-Dem), Michael Fabricant (Con), Viscount Falkland and the Bishop of Hereford posed for photographs on the famous interview area, from where later TV newscasts would be transmitted.

As Chair of the All-Parliamentary Group on Motorcycling, the politicians' 'bike club', Hazel Blears MP had been brave enough to sponsor the Atlee Room at Portcullis House for an afternoon question and answer session and riders from around the UK were already converging in the corners of a dark and dingy public house on the south side of Westminster Bridge, expecting to later walk across and put their concerns to spokespeople from the major parties.

Having struggled like Londoners for the few available parking spaces a growing atmosphere of hostility accompanied the throng as it made its way to queue outside Portcullis House. More photographs ensued from the official MCN photographer who was later to be refused access as cameras are not allowed inside. Once through the security guards and their X-ray devices the brand new architecture of this purpose built Parliamentary building welcomed spokespeople from industry, riders groups and the main political parties to discuss and answer questions from motorcyclists wishing to discover more about the continuing lack of consideration by policy makers.

In a somewhat surreal fashion, possibly reminiscent of an Alcoholics Anonymous session, (not that I've ever visited one) the panel started to build individual pictures by outlining and explaining their choice of machines, views on motorcycling matters, experiences and general reasoning behind motorcycling politics.

Brigadier Carey-Clinch of MCIA, a Harley rider, outlined how the Industry Association's recent focus on PTWs and consumer issues was neatly dovetailing with many of the riders' concerns. Trevor Magner, Triumph Sprint pilot and BMF representative was keen to emphasise how the entire community was working together - with today's Mass Lobby and BMF support of MAG's Bikers are Voters campaign a case in point!

Replacing Lembit Opik MP, Jonathan Simpson, a prospective Lib-Dem candidate - and recent victim was keen to explain how thefts of motorcycles had increased by 50% in his local area and urged all politically active bikers to contact their prospective parliamentary candidates to highlight the issues in the run up to the general election.

Scooter rider Phil Woolas, Labour MP for Oldham East & Saddleworth, underlined just how effective MAG's sustained campaigning had been during recent years. Firstly, by forcing the political parties into creating motorcycling policies, and thereafter by ensuring PTWs were included in general transport policies. The Government Advisory Group, likewise, had a 'good reputation' within the Departments whilst the recent Ten Year Plan would directly benefit riders by increasing investment, and improving infrastructure. Having been riding for 15 months Phil admitted to having been initially sceptical of the benefits of mopeds and motorcycles, but as a new rider was now convinced that their contribution is 'very significant indeed'.

Another supporter of the Bikers are Voters concept, Conservative Shadow Minister Bernard Jenkin MP, went on to explain how the perceived image of bikers was far removed from modern day reality. Motorcycles should be treated as a specific case for safety targeting, as road surfaces, ironwork, and diesel spillage were hazards which could be addressed more effectively by treating motorcycles with cycles than with cars. A 'Fair Deal for Motorcycling', the recent Conservative document calls for a clampdown on aggressive riders, with particular targeting of irresponsible riders using illegal silencers, high beam headlights, and general aggressive behaviour. Conservatives would encourage riders to address these problems as a community.

Taking some of the heat out of the growing political debate MAG's Ian Mutch explained that carrying a large passenger on an even larger Harley Davidson was still a quicker and more convenient way of travelling across London than using a car, and that recent market changes have finally taken motorcycling into the mainstream arena. However, riders must remember that motorcycling is not the answer for every type of journey and, when campaigning, riders should never lose their sense of fairness and to consider transport alternatives sensibly.

MAG National Chairman, Neil Liversidge leapt into an ensuing fray to raise the ongoing issue of VED evasion, especially as the SORN scheme was known to have administrative problems. Keeping previously registered machines as spares, or in various states of restoration had led to him being summonsed to the tune of £1,000 - a mistake due to poor DVLA administration. An issue that had affected others similarly.

Jane Griffiths Labour MP for Reading and Chair of the All Parliamentary Cycling Group then stated that in her opinion, and despite a certain amount of opposition, a motorcycle in bus lane scheme in her constituency was working extremely well and urged bikers to engage their local authorities to persuade them to create similar schemes.

Representatives of South Herts MAG went on to say that with recent European limits now in force motorcycles could be too quiet in some circumstances with drivers actually failing to see or hear the machine, even when right alongside the car.

The panel agreed that motorcycle bus lane access was welcome, although the ongoing VED situation was not working and questionable. A suggestion that drivers work their way up to a car license via a stepped approach, which would start at a small PTW was warmly applauded by attendees, as were recent improvements to the theory test questions which now include hazard perception video clips. The Transport Bill was discussed as the lack of mention of PTWs was to simplify legal terminology, rather than a deliberate attempt to exclude us! In view of the success of the Sandwell forum MAG groups were reminded to try and replicate the motorcycle advisory group within their own local authority areas.

At that point a Scottish MAG representative reminded the panel that motorcycling has faced a number of less than impartial scientific research studies, that we are likely to continue to do so, and that riders should stick to what felt right to the individual. This drew a number of supporters for and against daytime headlight use and loud exhaust noise levels.

Michael Fabricant, Conservative MP for Lichfield, drew an enthusiastic response upon mentioning his beloved Yamaha FJ1200, thanked MAG and the rest of the biking community for amendments submitted to the recent Vehicle Crime Bill debate, but felt that the Government could have done more to reduce theft of motorcycles and the trade in stolen parts. However, as an individual rider he supported a 'lights on' policy and felt that they were of personal benefit, although the Conservative document suggesting a daytime full beam restriction use would be difficult to enforce.

This approach led South London MAG to remind the panel that many riders have a philosophy of 'education, not legislation' and many right-minded people support this approach toward personal freedom. A recent example of individual liberty being eroded came from an insurance claim, which had been reduced due to the rider not using lights during the daytime, despite good conditions.

Western Region MAG raised concerns that money from VED was not being spent on roads, and that the fines for insurance dodgers were often less than the actual premiums, a sentiment that was widely echoed.

London Region MAG explained that the UK regions have very different problems with London being a case in point. Motorcycle access to bus lanes and parking were hot political issues in the capital although many of those attending today from other areas had been surprised, in particular, to find motorcycle parking spaces so scarce.

An individual MAG member than explained in detail how much his motorcycle had actually cost to purchase, especially when clothing, training, security equipment et al had been purchased. His decision to change from a car to a more environmentally friendly mode had not been as easy as expected, and just as expensive, although he now enjoyed his travel, despite being treated as a second-class citizen. Fiscal incentives, such as reducing VAT on safety clothing and security devices, to encourage modal shift towards motorcycling were suggested.

Ian Mutch added that many riders were sceptical of the Criminal Justice System and that motorcycle theft was an 'easy touch' for criminals who are often handed derisory sentences. The legal system needs to understand the anger, rage and frustration experienced by riders upon having their pride and joy stolen, which is more personal than a car driver would experience.

Again, Bernard Jenkin urged riders to exert local pressure on the authorities as many were ignorant of motorcycling issues and would welcome input. Automated speed cameras were of particular concern and should be used carefully by the authorities as they could be considered a 'Stealth Tax'.

At this point Phil Woolas disagreed and reminded us that UK roads have the lowest levels of deaths in Europe. Explaining that it is a cheap and easy trick to deflect the debate by suggesting that speed cameras are purely for revenue generation. They are there as a deterrent and are of particular benefit to riders! Despite a general road user dislike of speed cameras biking is undergoing a renaissance. Despite record sales increases of 217% during the past four years registrations are continuing to increase by 10% year-on-year, and despite this we have the lowest level of fatalities ever! The delay in creating policy toward the ever-increasing numbers of riders reflects the overwhelming responsibility of DETR to maintain safety - even to the detriment of motorcycling! However, the riders' points of view were being received loud and clear by Government, especially through the Advisory Group, and that with over 150 advisory groups to deal with MAG continues to increase its profile.

Jonathan Simpson added that despite listening to us, and against the wishes of riders, DETR continues to discuss airbags and leg protector systems for motorcycles. A more inclusive approach to transport safety should be considered, with a GCSE on motorcycling introduced nationally, similar to the Northern Ireland scheme. Insurance premiums were now so high for certain models that they were becoming a potential deterrent to sales and some insurance companies so out of touch they were actually lobbying against dark visors! Councils really 'need a kick up the backside' to encourage them in the right direction, and better enforcement of road traffic offences rather than continued denigration of traffic officers in favour of automated speed enforcement devices.

Trevor Magner, BMF, backed speed camera technology, but only when the installations were in areas of proven speed related accident problems. 39% of accidents are still down to unspecified human error and that neglect of enforcement of evidentially led cases is creating a culture of anything goes - as long as I'm not speeding! Automated cameras fail to separate excessive and inappropriate speed and are therefore a 'cop out'. Quite literally! There is no evidence that daytime lights work and safety bodies fail to separate daytime headlight use from daytime running lights, or marker lights. In its haste to rush the Vehicle Crime Bill through Parliament the Government has created a 'dogs dinner' - much more could have been done to protect motorcycles. To tack hypothecation of speed camera revenues on to the end of the bill was not in the spirit of the bill and the Home Office still has work to do to reduce the problem of motorcycle crime.

At that point an unnamed police officer stood up, described how he had been riding since 12 years of age and read out a long list of personal concerns to an increasingly vocal audience - starting with safety. Since privatisation road maintenance has deteriorated to such an extent that police vehicles are receiving a disproportionate amount of damage. Lack of hard shoulder sweeping a graphic example, as the numbers of punctures received by police cars are unbelievable. Bikers actually receive more training than any driver - and as an advanced police rider / trainer he can confirm that!! VAT on safety equipment is outrageous - sending exactly the wrong message! In the Far East mopeds and motorcycles are the only way to get in and out of the cities - they are obviously a solution staring transport planners in the face! This recent clampdown on speeders is becoming intolerable and is ridiculous - he has no intention to enforce! Telematic, or external vehicle speed control is an outrage - he would rip any such device off straight away! Exhaust noise problems are mainly due to small bikes - ridden irresponsibly! Speed cameras on dual carriageways are questionable, in town yes - he will refuse to process tickets from questionably sited cameras! Little progress has been made during the last four years - the police already have enough legislative powers and should be encouraged to use discretion wisely! A London Ambulance rider agreed that, whilst improving, driving standards are generally very poor. He rides an ambulance-bike with sirens and flashing lights and car drivers regularly pull out on him - they just fail to look!

South Herts and Southern MAG reiterated the massive skill differences between car drivers and bikers with several examples of accidents caused by inattentive drivers.

Hazel Blears intervened by describing how the All Parliamentary Group was forever looking for opportunities to present ideas to Parliament and that some of these have recently been achieved. All MPs now advise their local authorities to include bikers on local transport forums and to create a local forum, if not already achieved. The disparity between VED rates would be investigated and the recent Transport Bill does contain a Lords amendment to encourage secure parking measures and use. APMG members have engaged the Corporation of London Unitary Development Plan and progress was being made with the cyclists, as explained earlier by Jane Griffiths MP. Despite these recent successes riders should remember that we are subject to a 'pecking order' as Government does have to prioritise with the Health Service and Education, in particular, stated.

Ian Mutch described the recent explosion in motorcycle sales as fuelling the timescale of change now required, although Bernard tempered this by reiterating an earlier point that motorcyclists only really wanted parity with the other modes - a level playing field! Phil Woolas explained that the positive framework was already happening although Jonathan Simpson pointed out a certain lack of joined-up thinking between DETR, The Home Office and The Treasury. A national motorcycling strategy is desperately needed, as the Advisory Group is not officially connected to Treasury, or Home Office. Trevor Magner agreed that progress has been made although immediate issues such as fiscal and safety measures could be implemented before the Advisory Group creates the much-needed guidelines to reduce the structured bias that exists against motorcycling. Craig Carey-Clinch summed up by calling for everyone to support a national motorcycling strategy and to start by putting transport into general education.

Hazel Blears thanked everyone for attending, especially those MPs that had shown support for motorcycling, those riders that had traveled distance to make their views known, and those riders who were active in their local communities and encouraged them to keep up the good work.