In the last edition of Network you may have noticed an advertisement for the job of Research Analyst. Having been closely involved with the internal workings of MAG during the last few years, I applied and was awarded the post at a post-conference meeting in Scarborough. I started on 11th October, based at our Rugby offices, and once acclimatized envisage myself bringing a more 'hands on' approach to this organisation.

If you were not already aware, due to the 'burnout' of volunteers I have been producing Network since the beginning of the year, and this will continue. However, distribution should shortly be improved by an Internet version becoming available - see details overleaf. The printing itself has been brought to Central Office as we now have 'state of the art' copying and printing machines and once the mysteries of the technology unravel themselves actually print here. (Sorry if your copy has any smudgy finger marks, or upside-down pages) If you have access to the Internet, or know someone 'online' and no longer wish to receive a printed copy, perhaps you could let us know so we can reduce the number we post out - and ultimately the cost.

Apart from Network, I will be submitting regular press articles and comment for Streetbiker and other media which will be directly produced from MAG's political monitoring activities and research, so expect a more comprehensive, informative, and ultimately, more effective organisation than ever!

However, it is important that the information flow within MAG UK is a two-way process. Information should not, come entirely from people like myself or the other activists - specific feedback requests such as the reps questionnaire and Network articles are not made for fun, but are for a serious reason. They inform us on local and regional activities, allow problems to be identified and assistance to be offered if necessary. Areas or local groups with successes can be used as examples of good practice to motivate and lead our campaigners elsewhere. A picture of the constantly changing UK motorcycling scene can be positively maintained, promoted and enhanced - for the benefit of all riders! Please, please let us know what you're doing, even if you do not consider it particularly relevant. Any problems unique to your club, group or region make great articles - don't be shy in submitting them, however bad you think they look!

This issue, as you have probably already noticed is stapled, so you can take out specific articles and use them as 'stand alone' material. Please take the time to do a couple of positive things this month; a letter to your MP on the ridiculous 'zero-tolerance' speed debate, a call to your local council or National Park requesting their draft local transport plan and a letter or call reminding the authorities about the hazards of diesel covered roads. Don't worry if they reply with a question - you can always pass it back to your regional contact, or directly to myself!

Don't hesitate to phone on 0870 444 8 448, fax on 0870 444 9 449 or Email network@mag-uk.org, anytime.

If we haven't already met, please call into the MAG UK stand at the NEC Show - the largest ever. MAG now offer more benefits than any riders' organisation on the entire planet! Henry, myself and the rest of the team will make you most welcome. See you there!

The Phil Neale