MCN delves into what the upcoming general election could mean for UK motorcyclists
With a general election taking place on Thursday, July 4 to determine the next UK government, MCN has been looking into the promises laid out by key political parties to see how each could impact motorcyclists.
Political discussions surrounding bikes are nothing new, with the debate on the phase out of combustion engined two-wheelers already rumbling on for years and no officially sanctioned cut-off yet to be finally determined.
Ahead of parliament being dissolved on May 30, we had also previously heard ministers from both Conservative and Labour camps showing support to a reform of the UK motorcycle licencing structure, but this is all now on the back burner as prospective politicians canvass for votes.
According to the latest published polls, Labour look to be the party most likely to form the next government, however plenty more movements have their own take on the future of transport.
Defending their seat
Of the political groups analysed, the Conservative and Unionist Party manifesto is the only document to specifically mention motorcycles.
“Following the recent consultation, we will allow motorcycles in all bus lanes and reform motorcycle licensing,” the 80-page document reads. On top of this, there is also a promise to reverse the ULEZ expansion to all London boroughs, as well as ruling out a blanket 20mph speed limit across all Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs). No further smart motorways will be built, either, according to the document.
On top of this, other points include forcing petrol retailers to share their prices in a bid to give people a fairer cost on the forecourt.
This comes following an announcement to extend the sale of petrol and diesel cars to 2035, which was made by then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on September 20 last year. Back in April of this year, the party also pledged £8.3 billion to improving local transport routes too, following the reallocation of some funding taken from the HS2 project.
Labour promises
In contrast to this, Labour’s ‘Change’ manifesto pledges to restore the 2030 phase out of new combustion engined cars, although no mention of motorcycles is specifically made.
“Labour will maintain and renew our road network, to ensure it serves drivers, cyclists and other road users, remains safe, and tackles congestion,” the 136-page document states.
