Winchester & Chandler's Ford MP Steve Brine has added his support to Sir Alan Beith's Road Safety Bill, which was presented to the Commons on Wednesday 18th May.
The Bill, which enjoys widespread support among Members, seeks to secure better protection for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users. It also wants to provide better support for HGV drivers involved in accidents due to blindspots on their vehicles.
The Bill proposes powers for the Secretary of State to bring in measures to require blindspot eliminating equipment as standard on new HGVs and to encourage retrofitting on HGVs already operating on the our roads. This can includes vehicle reversing camera/monitor systems, reversing alarms, movement sensors, ultrasonic proximity sensors, thermal imaging cameras and digital recorders – all of which can help to reduce the risk of collision.
Steve, who can often be spotted pedalling around his home city of Winchester, said: "As well as being an excellent way of keeping fit, there are just so many green benefits in cycling that often it becomes a no-brainer. However, one thing I have often heard, particularly through my role in the All-Party Cycling Group, is that some people can be put off because of fears of an accident.
"I am delighted the Bill, which I hope will do much to allay such fears, has support across the House, and very much look forward to helping to promote the issue of road safety for all as the Bill works its way through the House."
The Second Reading of the Bill is due in September.
Pictured; Keen cyclist Steve is delighted the Road Safety Bill is progressing through Parliament with cross-party support
More information...
You can find out more from Hansard here
Visit the See Me, Save Me website, which inspired the Bill, at www.eilidhcairns.com/seemesaveme