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MAG National Committee Meeting 11th June 2005 Masonic Hall, Rugby
Present
Ian Moore Chairman
Jane Chisholm Vice Chair
Justine Travis Finance Director
Archi Hipkins National Network Communications Officer
Trevor Baird Director of Public Affairs
Elaine Hardy National Research Officer
Alan Woolley National Clubs Liaison Officer
Ian Churchlow Director
Gerard Livett Director & Regional Rep – Greater London
John Mitchell Director & Regional Rep – South East
Eddie Lowe Regional Rep – West Midlands
John Thomson Regional Rep – Southern
Tony Cox Regional Rep – North West
Paul Turner Regional Rep – Cumbria
Steve Wykes Regional Rep – Scotland
Andy Timms Regional Rep – Yorkshire & N Lincs
Derwen Hinds NC Liaison – Western Region
Robin Straughan Regional Rep – North East
Dave Elrick Consultant
Meeting commenced 10:00 Hrs
Apologies
Ian Mutch (President), Shan Tedder (East Anglia), Mike Baker (South West), Gary Olphert (Secretary Northern Ireland), Andrew Davis (South Wales), Simon O’Connor (Essex & Herts).
Minutes of last Meeting
The Minutes of the last RAMS meeting and the last NC were reviewed and after some minor amendments the minutes were accepted.
Rams minutes Proposed Ian Churchlow, seconded John Mitchell Vote unanimous
NC minutes – Proposed Archi Hipkins, seconded Robin Straughan Vote unanimous
Matters arising RAMS and NC
Derwin (Hinds) was assisting Andrew Davis in setting up an open day in South Wales to try and kick start the region.
After representations by MAG, pointing out the good safety record of Taxi bikes, TfL had withdrawn their proposed ban on Taxi Bike operation in London.
A revamp of the Corporate Membership pack was being undertaken. Action – Dave Elrick
The IHIE guidelines for motorcycling had now been released and can now be used to promote good practice in road maintenance and design. An article is to be put into the next
issue of Streetbiker.
Appointments and Resignations:
The appointment of Jane Chisholm and John Mitchell as directors of MAG UK Ltd. as proposed at the AGC was ratified unanimously by the NC.
Alan Waldron – Regional Rep for the East Midlands, had regrettably been forced to resign due to pressure of work.
Presentation on review of MAG’s publications – Dave Elrick
Dave explained that the recent series of adverts in BSH and 100% Biker had been successful in attracting new members, but that this success was partially off set by the cost of the advertising. Similarly the cost of printing Streetbiker was substantial.
Dave gave a presentation to NC on MAG publications and changes that could improve them and their circulation.
Following Dave’s presentation Ian Moore proposed that Dave Elrick’s contract be extended by two months to enable him to continue evaluation of the re-branding, re-launch and re-pricing of Streetbiker as a commercially viable publication, seconded Archi Hipkins.
Carried unanimously
National Officer Reports
National officers presented reports. Ian Moore said that the benefits of Dave Elrick’s work were now starting to bear fruit as his presentation and the revised insurance deal to be discussed later proved. MAG members could be thankful that a good team were in place and that good things were happening.
Jane Chisholm referred the NC to her Vice Chairmans report e-mailed prior to the meeting where she outlined her activities to date, which included mentoring Andy Timms in his new role as Yorkshire Rep. Working at into the valley and the Doncaster pro Custom Bike Show, attending Simon Millwards memorial service, the Yorkshire Pudding Rally meeting and the Huddersfield MAG party and researching the biking community in Gran Canaria.
Justine gave details of the financial position. Input to the fighting fund was good, the input from the raffle was down on previous years at the moment and membership continued to rise. Some additional expenditure had been necessary to obtain additional help resolving server problems and combating viruses on the MAG computers, but income still exceeded expenditure and the balance was healthy.
Alan Wooley said that the club packs had now been updated. He continued to attend various club events to emphasis the importance of MAG club affiliation and promote stronger ties between clubs and MAG. Efforts were being made to obtain e-mail addresses from all clubs to aid with communication. A letter detailing the activities and purpose of the MAG Foundation had been sent out to all clubs.
Archi indicated that while Network currently contained details of national events and campaigns, he was keen to expand the local content and wished to publicise local successes.
He felt that it was very important that we highlight what has been achieved locally, both as recognition of the hard work that local groups do and as a means of encouraging other local groups and providing pointers to how successes were achieved.
He was aware that Network although containing plenty of factual information, was a bit dry and he would welcome more humour. Some additional training to ensure that local reps get information out was also needed to help vary the content. To this end the reps database was being updated and information was required as a matter of urgency.
Action Regional Reps
Ian Churchlow undertook to review the reps database to determine what changes can be made.
Action – Ian Churchlow
Elaine Hardy presented the National Research Officers report highlighting two areas of note.
DRLs (Daytime Running Lights)
The main issue being the response from the EU to Elaine’s paper on Daytime Running Lights. Mr Theologitis apparently only considers the opinions of the most prominent road safety experts from ‘respectable’ Research institutes, TNO and SWOV Netherlands and TOI Norway, replying to our report in an arrogant and dismissive manner.
A reply informing Mr Thologitis that opinions are exactly that opinions, and that experts are not always correct, citing the example of Prof. Roy Meadows, who’s expert testimony had led to many prosecutions and family disruptions, until his theories on the mysterious deaths of babies were proved to be flawed.
Japan will not allow DRLs because their evidence has demonstrated that they have no effect.
Many of the threats to motorcycling still emanate from the EU and much of our energy still requires to be directed in this direction.
Motorcycle Crime Reduction Group
Figures to be released from the Home Office are set to show that PTW thefts have shot through the roof. However the reason for this is not due to a massive upsurge in motorcycle crime, but as a result of changing the methodology of counting stolen PTWs and the Home Office having rejected one set of estimates for another.
This is likely to give rise to a change in figures from about 37k to 50k PTW thefts per year.
This is at odds with other forms of vehicle crimes, which have reduced over the past ten years and will probably provide insurance companies with an excuse to escalate premiums.
Regional Reps Reports
Scotland
West Lothian MAG launch attracted about 10 members and once the publicity machine is in full flow should attract a good few folk from the area.
Runs to Dundee, the Berwick Quayside Bike show and Middlesborough MAG’s No1 rally attracted some new faces additional runs are planned to build on this success.
Attended Aberdeenshire MAG's 13th Stri son Soarsa rally a good turn out despite bitterly cold winds should see some cash coming centrals way soon.
Helped organise and man Edinburgh & District MAG's 14 Ag Ol Anns an Achaidh Rally. The event gets better by the year and attracted around 350 people this year, despite appalling weather.
Objections have been made to Glasgows proposed resident parking scheme in the West of the city on the grounds that 22 bike bays c.f. 4650 car bays is insufficient for existing PTW needs, never mind encouraging increased PTW use. Have requested that the council consider introducing end of line M/C bays to increase numbers and improve distribution. Have also asked that they consider residents permits which will fit in "Tax disc Holders" to mitigate against theft.
Attended the Scottish Executive Motorcycle meeting on 22nd April and have received assurances that the Draft Scottish Motorcycle Strategy will be considered before the September meeting. (Trevor to note)
Attended the inaugural meeting of the Edinburgh Transport Forum, a bottom up users committee set up in the wake of the resounding defeat of the Edinburgh Congestion Charge referendum to actually listen to what people in Edinburgh want.
Needless to say they are nothing to do with the council, though the council have promised to listen. I get the impression that they will be open to ideas, including those of PTW users, to try and stop Edinburgh grinding to a halt.
Greater London
New Rep (Barbara Alam) appointed for Commuter MAG - progress being made with some central London Councils. Uncle Sol re-elected as regional rep at the Greater London AGM.
Local Transport Plan presentations have been given to councils with mixed receptions, Kingston being positive, Bromley and others being negative. Camden and Islington won’t promote motorcycling, while Westminster keeps council tax low through parking charges and want to charge for motorcycle parking. This was brought to light during a meeting with Westminster to discuss additional parking provision to combat theft, which is highest in Westminster and the City of London. MAG is opposed to any motorcycle parking charges and has heard that the GLA are annoyed that Westminster are considering this and are contemplating hauling WCC councillors before a meeting with them to explain themselves. Local councils in London are now seeking to obtain cash from traffic infringements, such as yellow box cameras to boost their funds.
Work is also continuing on the Thames Gateway Bridge attending tolling regime and procedural meetings and preparing evidence for submission.
South East
South East Region held the first (of what is to become an annual) Simon Milward Memorial run - a hundred or so bikes from Tunbridge Wells to Brighton.
Hastings MAG has folded, but the membership in the area probably does not justify a branch and members can attend Beachy Head MAG.
Ram's Revenge Custom Show and Party was down on numbers due to poor weather and clashing with the BMF show, though losses are expected to be minimal. A change of date is proposed for next year.
Tony Carter has been using Sols LTP presentation to good effect with councils and had had a meeting with Chatham Council during which road safety initiatives such as Bikesafe had been discussed. The formation of a partnership focus group containing MAG, Road Safety, Traffic Management and parking representatives the Police, BMF and a representative of the Kent inter-club alliance was also discussed, as were initiatives to take to young riders in schools and colleges. The council agreed that inclusion of PTW’s in Travel plans and Local transport plans should be investigated, with provision being made where appropriate. The issue of Bus lane and Advance Stop Line access was raised and while those present accepted the rational, they would need to see the results of experiments and have government backing at a national level, before they could recommend the introduction of such measures to their colleagues. It was agreed that some quick fixes regarding bike parking could be implemented to show willingness to progress the cause of PTWs.
Bikesafe is taking off in Kent with support from London. Sussex is involving schools in training groups. Parking is also under review with Medway MAG going for it.
Yorkshire
Andy Timms reported that since taking over from Jane Chisholm in a bloodless coup, he had attended the York Auction, Into the Valley, the Doncaster show and the Bradford MAG AGM. He had also taken part in the Leeds Demo run and the Farmyard pre-rally marshals meeting.
He was also actively involved in trying to defuse problems in Scarborough over parking, where riders had been ticketed for parking in Marine Drive a traditional parking place. Phone calls to Chief Inspector Gill, John Hanner and councillor Allanson indicate that Scarborough council intend to provide alternative bike parking a 18 x 10m having been set aside. Andy was keen to ensure that the demo planned for 13th June does not alienate the local population before the traditional avenues of discussion with the council are exhausted.
West Midlands
Eddie reported that pre-booking was up for the Heart of England rally and requested NC support. The demo run traditionally held in conjunction with the rally would still go ahead this year but at a latter date in August.
There was concern in the region that despite considerable expenditure on cycle tracks and infrastructure the roads in the region had been allowed to deteriorate to a deplorable state, councils were being urged to rectify the situation.
North East
Darlington MAG are represented on their LTP forum and are advancing our arguments, with the effect that bike parking in the area is to be revamped. Bus lanes are springing up in Durham and the council are considering extending their congestion zone if the bypass fails to reduce traffic.
Archi was in discussion with Tyne and Wear PTA and Gateshead are taking our ideas on board. Northumberland, however are opposing us refusing to counter any form of Bike parking, borough councils including Blyth are more receptive and should put pressure on Northumberland to change their stance.
Proposals to ban bikes from Bus lanes in Newcastle appear to have been countered successfully following representations from MAG, where evidence of the schemes success in Bristol was presented.
Middlesborough MAG’s No1 rally had been very successful and was expected to make approximately £4k profit, while two patients from a local secure unit enjoyed themselves, before being taken back into care. Darlington MAG’s event had also been successful despite an incident where an attendee had decided to slaughter and barbecue a sheep. The individual concerned had been arrested and a whip round among attendees had helped ensure that possible negative publicity had been mitigated.
Western
Gloucester and Bristol AGM’s had been held. The national Bikesafe event had proved successful with lots of new members signing up and was due to take place at the same venue next year.
The Gloucester PTW forum was now up and running and Diesel stickers were being printed by the Council and were being distributed to bus and haulage contractors on the forum. The council were also co-ordinating a ride to work day.
There was some consternation that Bristol’s Jam Busters event appeared to exclude motorcycles, the councils response was that the event was only applicable to shared vehicles. A proper response was required to put them right. It was pointed out that Bromley council had produced an introductory guide to motorcycles and scooters which was quite good.
In addition to effort in the region Gloucester MAG were helping organise an event In support of Andrew Davis in Swansea.
Cumbria
Following overreaction from the BMF concerning a proposal to change free parking to regulated parking an interview was given to a MCN reporter. Pointing out that there were no immediate plans to implement this proposal.
Furness MAG had raised £100 during their Peel Island Party, while Whitehaven MAG’s "Into the Pink" party raised £700 for MAG. A good result for a one night event and well supported by the Devils Deciples and Quay Vipers.
Plans ahead are to arrange a meeting with our new MP to get him on board, and support all campaigns of course.
Paul is also involved with the CRASH meetings introduced with a view to reducing road accident figures but trying to get a bikers input. While the Cumbria Roadsafe day is scheduled to take place on 17th July at Carlisle racecourse.
North West
Tony indicated that the stall had been used at various events including the Thundersprint, where support and iMAGe products from Anji were much appreciated. Blackburn awareness day organised by Red Rose MAG was also very successful, and set to become a fixture on the calendar, while the NABD rally was greatly enjoyed by those on the stand.
In all, this presence and other activities, had helped boost membership in the region with 66 new members signing up in the last two months.
The leader of Fylde council was looking to get a bike event up and running and with assistance from Blackpool MAG it was hoped that this would provide a good opportunity to talk to him and advise him on MAG’s position.
Southern
John Thomson was re-elected as regional rep at the Southern region AGM, John intends to step down next year and is looking for a successor.
The region has attended Salisbury and Southampton bikes shows with some new members signed up including local MP Robert Key, Attendance of the regional stand at Beulieu was scheduled for the following week.
Representations are being made to MPs in the region following the election.
Andover MAG has been re-launched.
The NC thanked John Thomson and his team for their efforts in hosting an excellent AGC.
Public Affairs Director Political Report
Trevor presented his report indicating involvement on the following issues;
Bikers Are Voters
MAG UK ran its Bikers Are Voters Campaign contacting Prospective Parliamentary Candidates with a covering letter, a questionnaire and MAG UK Manifesto for Motorcycling. Responses from candidates are being analysed.
Initial feedback was varied with the Conservative party candidates appearing to have been well briefed on motorcycle issues. The BNP lobbied MAG groups with their policy, general advice was given on how to respond.
The campaign also ran a give the candidates the slip. Fed up with the amount of canvassing people could print out a slip which could be handed to canvassers and asked, “Did your candidate take into consideration the views of motorcyclists, If elected they should”.
There is a draft letter to welcome MP’s to this session of Parliament available at http://bikersarevoters.co.uk
Political Awareness
MAG has placed itself on two political sites to raise awareness to the “shakers and movers” on the political scene of the motorcycle lobby.
These sites also provide updates on the issues and access to data bases, from MPs to MEPs and Government Departments.
These can be viewed at www.epolitix.com/EN/Forums/Motorcycle+Action+Group
and www.politics.co.uk/campaignsite/mag-motorcycle-action-group-$1587917.htm
Bibles for Motorcyclists in the UK
Not in the religious sense but there have been three publications lately in the UK that the whole motorcycle community has been involved in.
Either in consultation or financial support, for example MAG UKs colleagues in the BMF and MCIA regarding the:
IHIE (The Institute of Highway Incorporated Engineers) Engineering Guidelines for Motorcycling
And hard work from all concerned on last years Advisory Group on Motorcycling Final Report to Government which led to the February launch of The Governments Motorcycle Strategy.
Available at www.mag-uk.org/content/pr/2004/august/dftgagmreport.pdf and
www.mag-uk.org/content/pr/2005/february/DfTMotorcycleStrategy.pdf
These documents are the bibles for motorcycling, raising the issues and offering the solutions to the detractors or those without knowledge of the motorcycling issues in the transport field.
This has lead to the reformatting of the Advisory Group on Motorcycling and the motorcycle community led National Motorcycle Council with representation from government departments to deliver the strategy.
Statisics - Testing the Nation
Recently on BBC one on UK television "Test the Nation" programme, demonstrated that 'Bikers' are just as clever as Rocket Scientists. Answering a series of Trivial Pursuit questions proved no barrier to our brothers from NABD (National Association of Bikers with a Disability. Coming second a point behind.
MAG UK will be testing the Nation - but with only one question: How much greater is the chance of a motorcyclist being fatally or seriously injured compared to a car driver? Is the answer: 20 times - 30 times - 40 times - 50 times – or 2 times? Answer all answers are correct depending on how the statistics are interpreted and what assumptions are made.
MAG UK Research Officer Elaine Hardy has looked at the figures from the UK’s Department of Transport. Reworking the Road Casualty Statistics in Great Britain report, came about because of the recent Eurorap report which stated a mini massacre of motorcycylist was happening on some rural roads.
The full report is available at www.network.mag-uk.org/documents/SafetyReportfromMAGUK.pdf
Local Transport Plans
MAG UK has now contacted all Local Transport Planning Authorities, including London, with a copy of the Local Transport Plan (LTP) CD and briefing document.
Co-ordinated by Greater London Rep and MAG Director Gerard Livett, councils should now be well aware of how to include Powered Two Wheelers (PTW), don't you just hate that description, in their LTP's.
The presentation can be downloaded at http://www.network.mag-uk.org/LTP/LTP-%20MAG%20UK.pdf
Gerard has also been involved with the rest of the motorcycle community in lodging a complaint against Transport for London’s (TfL) proposed £4 charge for the use of London’s new Gateway Bridge.
This also evolved around TfL proposing that motorcycles should be included in the London congestion charge and the extension of the same.
Picked up from a committee meeting minutes other proposals included accident reduction using air bags, leg protectors and Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) devices, to keep motorcycles to the speed limits.
This led to a climb down from TfL and the Mayor of London Ken Livingstone posting a letter to all concerned that he believes, “that motorcycles and scooters have an important part to play in reducing congestion and pollution in central London. Consequently, I would not approve any proposal to introduce a charge for these vehicles.”
These concerns and that the London Motorcycle Working Group, chaired by TfL was nothing more than a talking shop with recommended actions on motorcycle issues has led to the reforming of “Motorcycling for London”.
DEFRA
The Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) in one fell swoop caused the cancellation of off road motorsports held on farmers land. Basically a new farm subsidy scheme the Single Payment Scheme (SPS) replaced the Common Agricultural Policy. DEFRA interpreted this as meaning that motorsport could not take place on farm land if SPS was to be claimed.
MAG UK supported the campaign by the major organizations, LARA, ACU and MCIA opposing DEFRA’s position. DEFRA have withdrawn for the present and is reviewing the position after suggested legal action.
Right Hand Sidecars Ban in UK
Following Bob Tomlins (FEMA) representations and paper on this issue, the matter is being followed at the British level, through amendments to the national single vehicle type-approval regulation.
MAG UK and the BMF have been consulted and the DfT are at a stage suggesting the simple fitment of a lower powered light on the side car with a “defused” lens. This will not come under lighting regulations that affect height and width of twin headlight systems.
At this stage this position looks acceptable to all concerned and we will be meeting with DfT and BMF.
Diesel Spills
Diesel spills remain a menace. MAG is seeking for all garages to accept warning stickers which are designed to remind drivers to replace fuel caps properly.
A recent BBC TV news item illustrated how easy it is for drivers to over fill as a lorry driver spilt diesel out of his tank as he filled up. This was highlighted through the Email Army with Peter Scott sending a complaint to OFCOM the independent regulator and competition authority for the UK communications industries.
The response was pretty weak as they considered; “this item was about diesel fuel prices and how they will affect large users of the fuel, especially those in the haulage trade, not Health and Safety.
Despite extensive campaigning on the danger of diesel spills for motorcyclists, the situation doesn't seem to have been resolved. MAG UK has asked how hard is it for diesel tanks to be designed so that diesel cannot spill out of tanks or caps be designed to prevent the problem.
One manufacturer Sag Aluminium, http://www.sag.at produce tanks for Volvo, Man, Daf, Scania and also provide anti spill flaps. General opinion is, if fitted as standard during production, cost would be in the region of 5-10 euro. From what we know truck drivers are reluctant to use locking caps, because if someone wants to steal the diesel, they will simply puncture the tank! Thus the fitting of spring loaded flaps as standard, could offer a solution.
Disparity in fuel price across Europe is also leading to bigger capacity tanks.
We have antidotal stories of drivers, this includes trucks and coaches, for example on their runs to Greece, with diesel being so much cheaper there they use a 2000 litre tank plus trailer "belly" tanks. They can fill up in Greece and do a round trip to the UK and back.
However the main problem is possibly still the drivers, NOT that they are negligent, but it is a simple enough thing to forget to put the cap back on tight, or not to check it every time you stop. Drivers don't want to lose any fuel, since operators rigidly control fuel consumption.
Thus the diesel spill stickers are a good idea, or any other form of education but the top method would be the introduction of spill proof tanks.
MAG has produced thousands of Diesel Spill stickers which have been placed on pumps and trucks throughout the UK to remind drivers of the dangers of diesel spills, but we are still meeting resistance from forecourt staff, supermarket chains and oil companies to the use of the stickers.
In addition the use of proper products to wipe/soak spills up on forecourts is needed. While forecourt owners need to check, that the entrance or exits to forecourts i.e. the highway, has no spills or has become contaminated by diesel or other fluids.
There will be an article in Forecourt Trader on these concerns which is circulated to every forecourt in the UK, as well as oil company and supermarket head offices and suppliers to the industry getting the message out. Trevor thanked Frank Finch from the Motor Retailers Association (MRA) for setting this up.
MAG has also pointed out that Diesel Spills on the highway are not being mopped up correctly, road authorities are continuing to use of sand and stone chippings which create a further hazard instead of more appropriate materials and tactics. A sample product "Oil Sponge" can be viewed at www.phaseiii.com/Products/oil_sponge_remedial.html
There are various campaigns in the UK but none are joined up at present.
As forwarded by e-mail the Killspills campaign have launched their London Rally for 10th September 2005 with sponsorship tie up with the BMF.
The latest campaign was launched recently by Northamptonshire’s Casualty Reduction Partnership.
Sponsored by RAC Legal Services which has given £5,000 for educational material all marked with the ‘Spills Kills!’ message aimed at raising drivers’ awareness of the problem.
In a survey of 10,000 local motorcyclists carried out by the Casualty Reduction Partnership, nearly all of the respondents listed diesel spills as a daily hazard and an area of real concern for them.
Further details are in the MAG News section of the MAG UK website.
If any conclusion can be reached by all of this, the weak link is simple human error and education of that error, that if you overfill your tank it will spill out. If that simple message can not be achieved then anti spill systems, warning lights, lockable fuel caps, prosecution by police officers or transport agencies must be implemented to prevent diesel spills.
MEP Ride
MAG UK will again be attending the MEP Ride in Strasburg in July supported by activists from Mid Lincs MAG. This year’s event will focus on the Third Driving Licenses Directive and the Road Traffic Safety report currently being discussed within the European Parliament. Furthermore, FEMA will present a document on guard rails and a sample of a guard rail fitted with a motorcycle-friendly device kindly provided by HIASA.
Apart from the important lobbying the MEP Ride the PR exercise consists of taking MEPs and their representatives on a ride as pillions from the European Parliament through the Alsacian roads South of Strasbourg. Invitations are to be sent to MEPs and their assistants.
Third Driving Licence Directive
Basically to sum up the European motorcycle communities’ position (FEMA – ACEM – FIM) has not changed from the previous lobby of MEPs in February 2005.
The Directive is an attempt to harmonize motorcycle licenses across Europe. Its not a sexy topic, it is complicated and it is very important to the growth and access to motorcycling for new and young riders.
Starting first with the statement that, the removal of the motorcycle section in the directive would be the best alternative. We need to see how far we can progress first, while retaining to our position without horse trading any ground away and arriving perhaps with the afore mentioned position.
The compromise presently being proposed by the Luxembourg Presidency of the Council of Ministers brings a political dimension to the directive as the directive seems to be being pushed through before the change of this Presidency at the end of June. Neither the British nor the Austrians would deal with the dossier under their respective Presidency. Other political issues in the directive concern, chips in licences, bio metal strips, trailers, age of renewal of licences.
There is also a fear that if the directive reaches the Council of Ministers at the end of June without acceptance of the motorcycle community position that a rubber stamp exercise will follow, despite this unsatisfactory state of the motorcycle provisions, in a Second reading in the European Parliament. But MEPs appear not to be happy at this situation given some of the political implementations.
MAG – BMF and MCIA held a meeting to discuss our agreed “technical” position. Our aim is a motorcycle licence system that in political dialogue understandable by Europe institutions is to: find a transparent system of progressive access to motorcycles, understandable and affordable for the citizen, as well as a sustainable framework for the motorcycle industry and users in the future.
If there is a person to identify in all of this it is Grosch the Rapporteur (official appointed to record and make or draw up a report) a very powerful position.
What he has introduced is a sliding ladder with training or testing between different stages of progressing through different stages of a motorcycle licence from 14 years to an “acceptable” age for a full licence and restriction until able to ride a full power bike.
This is where harmonization bites the dust as there are derogations that member states can pick when to introduce tests for riders. For example a member state (MS) could introduce the AM licence (50cc 4kw Moped) at age 18 and an A1 licence (125 cc 11kw) at 18 years. With a minimum age for larger machines A2 (Max 35 KW – equivalent to present 33 1/3 brake horse power limit) at 20 years. With a three-year restriction you would not be able to move to a full power machine until age 23. Additional training or testing between licences would also be possible.
This is a worse case scenario on the “ladder” so a compromise on this is trying to be reached.
But how far do we compromise?
At this stage in the compromise we have lost:
•Direct Access (full A licence) at 21 years
•Access at 17 but trying to have A2 access at 18 rather than 19.
Trying to salvage:
•Step between A1 and A2 licences from 2 years to one year if the national age of access for the A1 licence is over 16.
The changes to the motorcycle sections of the directive are unlikely to produce any road safety benefit and will certainly not improve personal mobility, further they are not supported by any research findings.
The final point and this ties in with the latest failure of the referendums on the European Constitution in France and the Netherlands that the European Parliament and Commission are perhaps realising that their citizens are not happy with being governed by unelected officials.
Update from FEMA
•AM: no support for Denmarks position of up to 18.
•No support for keeping alive low performance mopeds (25 km/h, 30 km/h) categories
•Possible derogation for UK (17) but still needing to comply with the 4 years total criteria in progressive access (1+3 in this case). This derogation could therefore be open to more MS.
•Regarding our proposal 2., it is felt that one year between A1 and A2 would not be sufficient.
•Training and testing: EC sent in statistics showing that major PTW accidents are moving from A2 to A)
Comments on the training and testing were to emphasise the importance of not lumbering progressive access with requirements that would discourage the user from it, as well as to potentially cause problems of availability of training in some Member States, blocking the system of access to PTWs.
FEMA proposal as it stands seeks to encourage progressive access, and allows for a soft introduction of the concept of training compatibly with the different situations in all MS. Equally, it will naturally ensure further development and availability of training in all MS in the future.
Depending on the outcome of the EP discussions, we will decide next week whether emailing MEPs is necessary during the period 13-22 June. Though the MEPs had been less than happy with the 100 page briefing document given to them on the day of their last meeting.
Whether we decide to lobby at this time or not Trevor felt that a Network Special Bulletin should be produced on this issue as a matter of urgency and this was agreed.
Action Trevor Baird/Archi Hipkins
So watch this space for lobbying of MEPs and a rejection of the compromise?
Notes:
AM licence (50cc 4kw)
A1 licence (125 cc 11kw)
A2 (Max 35 KW)
A full licence
Thanks to Antonio at FEMA and Tom Waterer at MCIA.
Crash Barriers
MAG UK are part of the FEMA working group on crash barriers, which includes MAG Netherlands and NMCU Norway. .
The working group at present is making an inventory of existing motorcyclist-friendly crash barrier projects all over Europe, using information and data provided by all 22 FEMA member organisations.
After collecting all this information the FEMA Working Group will produce a document that can function as lobbying tool for riders' rights organisations in their own country and in Europe
An information pack including our current position was circulated on 20th January 2005 with zero feedback.
The situation has moved on since then with MAG Netherlands being threatened with a law suit because of their stance and showing of a test video on their website.
Since the Dutch company Eurorail (a daughter company of Brifen) can prove that Brifen owns the rights to the video, MAG Netherlands have had to remove it from their website.
Although if you wish to see the sample which was shown at the April AGC, you can watch it in the public domain along with similar videos at:
http://www.brifenusa.com/
http://www.brifen.co.uk/video.html
http://safence.com/Standarde.htm
The problem with the MAG UK crash barrier position is that it is being used by wire rope manufacturers, mainly Briefen to disrupt the riders lobby against wire rope barriers being conducted by our colleagues in other riders organizations, namely MAG Netherlands and MAG Ireland.
Some History
At http://www.eurorail.nl/kabels/MAG%20brief.htmI this is Eurorail/Brifen using a thirteen year old letter by MAG UK as proof that cable barriers are safe for riders.
I understand this letter was written after MAG UK was threatened by Brifen with court action on the MAG UK stance and writings on wire rope barriers in 1992. Some things never change!!!
The MAG position was based on a looking at 20 years of M62 accident statistics provided by West Yorkshire police on straight parts of road/motorway and finding only two motorcycle accidents occurred which did not result in bad injury.
As a consequence MAG took the stance that although wire rope barriers looked flimsy, compared with traditional ARMCO and suggested that the wires could act as ‘cheese-wire’, the wires were less inclined to cut through leather than the sharp edges of ARMCO. While there were aspects of design which were not designed to protect riders, these aspects of design were no worse than traditional designs. They also had the benefits of improving visibility, acting as a deterrent to excessive speed due to risk compensation effects and continue to act as a vehicle restraint after an accident. Then as now no tests of the effectiveness of restraint systems in motorcycle accidents was required.
Back in 1992 there was the real threat of the introduction of leg protectors. So based on this the MAG position also reflected this threat, the reasoning was that if riders say that wire rope barriers are dangerous then leg protectors and their promoters such as Dr Chinn would see this as a reason to protect riders.
Times and attitudes have changed, so this is not as much a threat but still worth considering.
MAG also has a copy of a video from Brifen where the MAG logo (pipes) are used along with words of support by MAG. The MAG Ireland website has a radio interview which mentions MAG UKs support of wire rope barriers.
http://www.rte.ie/news/2004/1118/morningireland/morningireland3a.smil
This is not good to say the least we have an outdated position and are dragging other riders’ rights organizations down with our antiquated position.
Trevor asked that the NC endorse the following proposals:
1)Our position on all crash barriers is updated.
2)Contacting Brifen asking them to remove any reference that infers that MAG UK literally supports wire rope barriers.
Trevor had already contacted Eurorail asking them to withdraw the 1992 letter from their website and forward the correspondence that is referenced in this letter and any copies of their continued research. Eurorail have agreed to remove all references to MAG support.
The proposed position statement is as follows:
Vehicle Restraint Systems – Safety Fences – Motorcyclists
Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS) or Safety Fences appear on the road network in several forms and are most prevalent but not confined to their use on motorways and dual-carriageways and their junctions.
The main purpose of Vehicle Restraint Systems can be seen as the restraining or redirecting of errant vehicles from crossing central reservations into the path of other vehicles, during accident collisions.
The most common form of VRS consists of permanent steel posts supporting steel beams (steel beam barriers), commonly known as ‘ARMCO’ barriers and their derivatives or fabricated wire cables known as wire rope barriers.
All Vehicle Restraint Systems because of their construction are viewed by motorcyclists as an aggressive means of retention.
Other forms of permanent retention systems ca be identified as Safety Barriers which offer a continuous smooth surface, the most common form being constructed of concrete.
The common view of motorcyclists is that this type of safety barrier does not present the same aggressive hazard to motorcyclists.
The wire rope barrier because of the open nature of its design using upright permanent steel posts and wire cables is viewed by motorcyclists as the most aggressive form of Vehicle Restraint System.
This has led to the view that wire rope barriers when impacted by motorcyclists cause the most injuries to riders causing a ‘cheese wire’ effect when the body strikes the wire cables.
It is the position of MAG UK that, as with other Vehicle Restraint Systems the main cause of injury to riders is the exposed upright posts, these being more prevalent and exposed in wire rope systems.
This view is supported by computer simulations and tests, that clearly indicate that injuries will be severe if a rider hits the cables or the exposed supporting posts of a cable barrier system.
MAG UK is supported by riders’ organisations in Europe that the exposed posts of all Vehicle Restraint Systems are the main cause of injury to riders.
MAG UK are now engaged with our colleagues in Europe in an ongoing fight to have existing cable barriers removed and replaced by more “motorcycle-friendly” Vehicle Restraint Systems, such as concrete barriers or steel beam barriers fitted with a secondary rail.
We are also calling for existing steel beam barrier systems where they offer a hazard to motorcyclists to be fitted with a “motorcycle-friendly” secondary rail.
The NC endorsed Trevors proposals unanimously
Fiscal
Staffing MAG UK
MAG UK Office is now up to strength with the filling of a full time clerical post and also with the employment by MAG UK and the MAG Foundation of a Research Resource Officer.
Sarah Gardner will provide much needed assistance to work at MAG UK.
Other fiscal issues and meetings that MAG UK has been dealing with include Motorcycle Parking in Motorway service areas – Parliamentary Advisory Council on Transport Safety (PACTS) – DfT Motorcycle Ways In Session – Motorcycle Insurance – FEMA Crash Barrier Working Group – Trike Legislation – Lock 2 Lock – Enforcement of Red Routes in London - Enforcement of Red Routes in London.
Board Report
1.Report from Commercial contractor
Group support required if Donington camping weekend is to be a success. Membership is above 9000 for the first time since Jan 03. Advertising and Streetbiker costs need to be driven down. (see report on review of MAG publications)
Ian Churchlow to produce article explaining changes
2.MAG Motor Insurance
A deal has been agreed and subject to final contract signature will be publicised shortly.
3.Finance Working Group
There is a requirement to know when events, which will donate to MAG are taking place and what donations can be expected and when. An e-mail is to be sent out for details of events and regional treasurers contact details. The Simon Millward memorial service requested donations and BMF, MAG and SMC volunteered, 1000 euros donation suggested by MAG.
4.Membership admin
The database has been changed so that if people do not want Streetbiker they will still receive renewal notices.
John Thomson requested an analysis of membership by region, particularly details of retention. Ian Jones to be asked for quarterly reports on new members, lapsed members and full membership list. Instructions to be provided on how to analyse the data.
5.AOB
Jane Chisholm indicated that new regional reps need some training in excess of the reps handbook and LGEP. Some training should be put in place for regional and local reps on a rolling programme. Ian Moore, Ian Churchlow and Jane Chisholm to set up a committee to discuss training further. Trevor Baird indicated that the industry have expressed an interest in taking part and would fund some of the cost.
Foundation Report
Sarah Gardner has been appointed Research Resource Officer for the Foundation and is settling into the role well.
While Nich Brown has been appointed as a director.
Issues that the Foundation are looking into include:
Post Test Training, Diesel Spills, Secure Parking and Road surface hazards.
A letter is to be sent out to affiliated clubs explaining and detailing the work that the Foundation is undertaking.
AGC Minutes
The minutes of the Salisbury AGC were reviewed and declared a true record of the conference.
Proposed Uncle Sol,
Seconded Archi Hipkins
Vote unanimous
It was also agreed that the amended MAG constitution should be posted on the website as soon as possible.
National Stands
After discussion it was agreed that the National Stands failed to provide the visiting public with a clear unambiguous message about what MAG stands for and is. A casual observer could believe that MAG was all about selling raffle tickets and promoting credit cards. While both activities had been important in financing stand space and covering costs, the true message of MAG as a riders rights organisation had been diluted.
With the importance of the credit card promotion diminishing it was agreed that the stands should be more open and inviting to create a more friendly atmosphere like a club stand. A greater emphasis need to be placed on display boards advertising MAG’s campaigns and events with bold graphics.
Currently MAG has two 6x3m stands and two 3x3m stands which should be booked through central office and a list of events where the stand will be at in the regions should be created.
For local events and regional or local group stands current posters should be made available as pdf downloads for creation of A3 laminates.
Membership exclusions
The section of the constitution dealing with membership exclusions was examined. It was accepted that it was very difficult for MAG to check whether individuals should be excluded from membership in accordance with the wording of the constitution as it stands.
Ian Moore Proposed and John Mitchell seconded that the clause should be amended at the next AGC to cover the expulsion of members who bring MAG into disrepute.
Carried
LGEP
It was agreed that additional training was needed to help new regional and local reps and that the training should cover the following areas:
1.Responsibilities
2.Advice on Lobbying
3.Building contacts with the Press and collecting information
4.Recruitment and retention of members
5.Raising MAGs profile
6.MAG Stall guidance
7.Fundraising
8.Man management
9.Communication
The possibility of holding training sessions after the October NC was to be investigated and an e-mail seeking details of reps was to be sent.
Rotary Young photographer and writers competition on motorcycling.
Paul Tuner proposed that MAG should support the Rotary Young photographer and writers competition on motorcycling. Indicating that not only would this provide additional publicity for MAG but would help foster interest among the riders of the future.
This was agreed
Surveillance / Road Pricing
The threats of ever increasing surveillance including increasing closed circuit TV, ANPR cameras and satellite monitoring systems required for the introduction of road pricing schemes, present an increasing threat to our civil liberties threatening our right to travel within the UK without governmental interference.
Previous government data acquisition systems and databases of information did not have good records either on the accuracy or the security of the data held. The widespread adoption of such systems could also act as a precursor to the introduction of EVSC. MAG should continue to oppose the adoption of these systems.
MAG should also review its policy concerning Road Pricing and tolls, arguing for the exemption of motorcycles and scooters from any such schemes on the grounds of environmental and congestion benefits.
An article highlighting the dangers and arguments should be placed in Network.
This was agreed
Yorkshire Pudding Rally
The NC was reminded of details of the Yorkshire Pudding Rally scheduled to take place near Barnsley over the weekend of 5th to 7th August.
AOCB
The NC were advised that National Bike Week would take place at the same time as environmental transport week this year.
The question of whether or not to have the national stand at this years Sheene Run was asked. It was felt that given the nature of the run and the lack of co-operation and information provided at last years run, the stand should not be provided for this years event.
Meeting closed at 5.30 pm
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