Cyclist safety debate

I fully endorse The Times campaign on cities fit for cyclists. As the Vice Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on cycling, I spoke in the debate on cyclist safety on 23rd February.

In Hackney many steps have been taken to improve conditions for cyclists already, including training for cyclists and heavy goods vehicle drivers. Hackney Council offers free training for both. Nearly 80 per cent of the lorries that are involved in fatalities are construction vehicles, companies must train their drivers. Last year I saw for myself the dangers to cyclists caused by blind spots when I sat in an HGV cab.

The Times campaign also calls for a cycling commissioner, and Hackney council already has a dedicated cycle officer.

During the debate I highlighted the many businesses in Hackney which promote cycling, such as Harry Dobbs Design, which has designed a bike stand called the Y-Stand. This innovative product, designed in Hackney and made in Britain, can not only be found in Hackney but also in New York.

Read my full speech and the rest of the debate on cyclist safety