Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps the Government has taken to increase the safety of cycling.

The Government is fully committed to creating a safe environment for all road users, and in particular vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. Sections 204 – 225 of the Highway Code, aims to educate and remind drivers of the needs of more vulnerable road users including cyclists.

A revised Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions came into force on 22 April, which contains a number of measures, including low level cycle signals, a new type of crossing and changes to advanced stop lines, designed to improve the safety of cyclists on the road. TSRGD also includes changes making it easier for local authorities to introduce 20mph speed limits in residential areas.

We are also working on wider cyclist safety in other ways, including changes to vehicle design, publicity campaigns, and mandatory training for HGV drivers and optional training for cyclists, including extending the Bikeability programme of cycle training. Bikeability provides trainees with riding skills suited to the road, but also explains the importance of obeying the Highway Code, the correct use of safety equipment, and sharing the road with other people.