And a cynic’s response…
Back Roads Rider puts his own spin on the BMF / Mike Penning interview today:
http://backroadsrider.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/well-he-would-say-that-wouldnt-he/
Unfortunately, I agree with much of what he says, though I hear through the grapevine that Mr Penning has been very approachable by riders’ groups.
However, that approachability hasn’t stalled the imposition of the stepped licence regime which leaves the training industry and all new riders facing massive financial and logistical hurdles to jump. Details of how that will work appear to have been finalised during the lifetime of this government, rather than the last.
Advertisement
Google+
Another cynic thinks that no-one is likely to get a ‘new’, surprising, answer from a politician!
And, since BRB understands that, perhaps he’s in need of publicity too:)
Aren’t we all?
Actually, IIRC, Mike Penning said that “One ofthe only tv ad campaigns I’m doing this year is focused on motorcyclists”. Now whether that really is his choice – or of DfT mandarins – I can only guess.
But aren’t we better off with an active [even if rarely] rider than either a non-rider or, worse, someone who actively dislikes bikes?
On the surface, the answer would appear to be ‘yes’, and I certainly remember Peter Bottomley and his “we know what’s best for you” attitude to leg protectors when he was minister! And of course there’s Martin Bangermann at EU level who was determinedly anti-bike.
But realistically how much of a personal stamp on policy does any minister have, bearing in mind that Government and the Department for Transport determines the overall path of legislation and that the civil service and the DSA actually implement it?