Martlew Letter Phil Bixby

Dear Hugh I understand that a Private Member's Bill is being introduced (by Eric Martlew, the MP for Carlisle) which would make the wearing of helmets compulsory for cyclists under the age of 16. This measure is being pushed by BHIT, a single-interest pressure group. Please can I urge you to oppose this measure, on the following grounds:- I'm a cyclist (for travel in my work, for leisure and sport) and encourage my 11yo daughter to cycle regularly. I have also (as an architect specialising in community consultation) been involved in Safe Routes to School projects and in the design of Homezones, so I have some experience upon which to base my concerns. I sincerely hope I can count on your opposition to this measure. Best wishes Phil Bixby
 * Evidence suggests that where compulsory helmets are introduced, cycling decreases among children
 * The effectiveness of cycle helmets is questionable (far more so than, say, motorcycle helmets)
 * The number of children whose lives just *may* be saved by helmet-wearing is minute in comparison with the health benefits of promoting increased cycle use among young people
 * There are other cycling-related laws which are already inadequately enforced (for example cycling on pavements) without adding another
 * Working with schools and parents to promote broader cycle safety issues would be likely to be far more effective in improving safety
 * This government has already got a reputation for being intrusive ("the nanny state" is an oft-used phrase) - for heavens sake don't dig an even deeper hole for yourselves