Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the announcement of the package of initiatives to encourage cycling and running to work, what plans they have to assist in providing showers, washrooms and changing facilities at places of work.

The Government has published guidance to help ensure workplaces are as safe as possible, and this includes looking at any existing or new communal facilities such as showers and changing facilities. Employers are responsible for taking all reasonably practical steps to address health and safety risks; however, my Rt. Hon. Friend Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced unprecedented support for business and workers to protect them against the current economic emergency.

People should only be going into work if they cannot work from home, and we encourage employers to agree alternative or flexible working hours with their employees. Whilst we have always said that those who cannot work from home can travel to work, we are giving those who have not been working the confidence to return to work and those businesses who suspended operations the guidelines they need to reopen safely.

Walking, running and cycling help to reduce pressure on the public transport system and the road network, which is why they are recommended as more people return to the workplace. We are also encouraging people to avoid rush hour if they can, to help maintain social distancing. This will also reduce peak demand on the transport system.