The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) has joined the MCIA in publishing a manifesto for political action on bikes. Aimed at the new Labour government, the NMC’s manifesto is called Motorcycling Matters, and has seven key themes, covering bikes in wider transport policy; licensing and training; safer roads; decarbonisat
ion; access to bus lanes, free parking and green lanes; support for motorcycle sport; and protection for the classic bike sector. NMC director Craig Carey-Clinch said: “This general election is probably the most important for motorcycling in a generation. We face a situation where, as in 1997, all political parties have everything to play for. With a strong likelihood of a change in government, there is now a real opportunity to reshape the narrative and thinking around motorcycling and to send a clear message to candidates about what riders need from a new government. We urge all riders to support the campaign and help to make a real difference for motorcycling both locally and nationally.”
The NMC also says that potholes have hit home during the election campaign, but more focus is needed on other motorcycling issues. Carey-Clinch said: “The consensus around potholes is very welcome. However, given the growing importance of powered two-wheeled transport and the range of opportunities that motorcycling and other powered light vehicle types offer to overall transport policy, it is unfortunate that no political party has mentioned these as part of their headline transport policy priorities. Issues relating to micro-mobility are also overlooked.”