DVSA is setting up a new motorcycle strategy group, the Motorcycle Action Group has revealed.
The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) received a letter from the Roads Minister, Richard Holden, which was written in response to recommendations in a report published by MAG that called for revisions to the motorcycle licencing system to encourage more people to learn, and progress beyond a CBT.
More research into CBT rider numbers was included in MAG’s recommendations, as well as the aforementioned licencing revisions, with MAG wanting a simplified system as this “should increase the number of riders on the road whilst also improving safety,” it says.
MAG hopes that the new motorcycle strategy group will open possibilities for a review of the licencing system, in particular, and road safety will also be a primary concern of the group.
MAG reports that Mr. Holden wrote to them, saying: “The issues you have raised are important to this Department and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) […..] this Department is currently establishing a new motorcycle strategy group which will consider developments affecting road safety, and the training and testing for riders in the motorcycle sector.
“Establishing the number of riders who rely on just compulsory basic training (CBT) to ride should be useful to help inform future discussions and analysis […..] As far as a full review of the motorcycle licencing regime is concerned this may become one of the outcomes of the newly forming strategy group. Please rest assured MAG, along with other important key stakeholders, will be involved in any future work.”
MAG’s Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement, Colin Brown, said: “I am pleased that the Minister recognises the importance of taking an evidence-based approach. We have long been saying the current regime is overly complicated. This acts as a disincentive to riders entering motorcycling. It also results in many riders cutting their riding career short.
“It is important that there are clear criteria for any changes to the system. We see no value in change for change’s sake. But, more safe trips by motorcycle will help to reduce congestion and emissions. More fully qualified delivery riders will make the roads safer for all. We want to see more riders safely enjoying motorcycling. The training and testing regime is clearly the most influential factor in achieving those goals.”
