Network August 2007
Issued August 2007
National Network Communications Officer
Archi Hipkins - [email protected]
www.network.mag-uk.org
BRUM DEMO HAS IMPACT
BRAKEPUT ON ROAD PRICING
ROAD pricing will not come to Birmingham in the near future after councillors agreed to put proposals to charge
motorists on ice.
It means Manchester is likely to be the Government's guinea pig for controversial congestion charging schemes.
But it also means Birmingham could miss out on promised funding of up to £2 billion for public transport.
Leaders of local authorities in Birmingham, Coventry and the Black Country yesterday met and decided not to submit
a proposal to the Department for Transport.
The decision was made despite spending an estimated £4.1 million so far on research into how road pricing may work
in practice.
Chris Crean, West Midlands spokesman for Friends of the Earth, branded the £4.1 million cost as "a waste of public
money for no decision".
He added: "It is very worrying we can embark on a process in which so much public money is spent and there has
been no agreement at the outset that we will come up with a bid to take the process further."
Councillors left open the option of putting together plans later in the year following more consultation, but the delay
means the West Midlands will not be in the first wave of road pricing schemes.
The Government had asked local authorities to submit proposals by the end of this month.
A variety of different schemes had been considered for the West Midlands, including charging motorists up to £5 a day
to drive into city centres.
The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities is considering charging drivers £2 to enter the area enclosed by
the M60, and a further £1 to enter Manchester city centre.
The decision was welcomed by Black Country MP John Spellar (Lab, Warley).
He said: "This is welcome news. The proposals were highly flawed and were not good for the public or the business
community.
"There should be a wider rethink of whether this is the right way to go. The councils have made the right decision, as
reflected by public opinion."
But Sir Albert Bore, leader of the opposition Labour group on Birmingham City Council, said the region would now lose
out on much-needed funding.
"The money will go to Manchester or Cambridgeshire. Birmingham will lose out on this investment because other
people got their act together," he said.
The Government invited councils to draw up road pricing schemes which could eventually be extended across the
whole country.
In return, councils would receive cash from the Transport Innovation Fund to improve bus and other public transport
services, such as the Metro.
http://tinyurl.com/3b3e34
SINKING MANCHESTER C-CHARGE SHIP SUFFERS EMBARRASSING INTERNAL LEAKS
AGMA Voting Rules to be changed in an attempt to impose congestion charging?
Already holed below the waterline, the sinking ship of Manchester's congestion charge plans face a crucial vote on
Friday in order to try and keep them afloat. A source from within one of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport
Bodies (GMPTE/A) reveals that there are just two items to be discussed at the Association of Greater Manchester
Councils (AGMA) meeting on Friday 27th July. The first is a proposed move to change the rules from a consensus of
all 10 councils to majority voting — effective immediately. A vote will then follow on whether or not to enter a bid for
funding from the Transport Innovation Fund (TIF) and therefore congestion charging.
ABD’s source also revealed details of some of the costs for the proposed congestion charge scheme. Each
windscreen Tag payment transaction will incur a 15p charge, and there will be an administration cost of 52p each time
a number plate is read by the ANPR camera enforcement system. This would mean that it would cost £2.68 in
transaction costs for a £5 charge. The £1.8 billion loan, that the AGMA neglects to mention in its loaded surveys, will
reputedly cost Manchester £150 million per year for 30 years. The claim made at the Urbis debate by council leader
Richard Leese that the maximum £5 charge will make £180 million per year profit beggars belief, given that London's
£8 per day charge consistently fails to make anywhere near that amount. Clearly £5 is not nearly enough to cover the
costs of the scheme and finance the £1.8 billion debt. Remarkably, in a Manchester Evening News article published
on 11th January 2005, Richard Leese said that congestion charging could be "extremely damaging" to the local
economy.
MART and ABD spokesman Sean Corker said: "These internal leaks reveal that the authorities have known all along
how much the scheme would cost to operate and have deliberately withheld them because they would be so
damaging to the already weak case for a congestion charge in Manchester."
Transport Minister Ruth Kelly is in denial about the fact that the Transport Innovation Fund (TIF) is being used to
blackmail Manchester into introducing congestion charging. MART volunteers have surveyed Ruth Kelly's Bolton
constituency around the Hunger Hill area.
Sean Corker continues: "The Bolton households we contacted had been led to believe by the authorities that the £3
billion public transport investment was coming from the Government as new money. Once it was explained to
households that almost £2 billion of that figure was to be a loan raised locally against the congestion charge over a 30
year period, after which all congestion charge moneys reverted straight to central Government, 86% of people were
happy to sign our petition. Households expressed the opinion that they had been misled. Clearly the democracy shy
AGMA realise that the truth about the TIF bid would not survive a referendum. Will Ruth Kelly now listen to the
opinions of her constituents and stop the congestion charge?"
The Ombudsman is still looking into complaints against the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA)
concerning the non-disclosure of information and the breaking of council rules; she has already said that the
complaints against the AGMA cannot be investigated, as AGMA is only a "voluntary association". The Information
Commissioner has also confirmed that AGMA does not have to comply with Freedom of Information Act requirements.
However, FOI requests directed to AGMA members in their individual local authorities should be covered by the FOI
Act.
M.E.N. article 'Brakes put on road toll plan' from 11/1/2005 quoting Richard Leese
No referendum, just an AGMA opinion poll using loaded questions designed to mislead
Contact Sean Corker: 07-736-836-163
Manchester Against Road Tolls (MART)
Association of British Drivers (ABD) http://www.abd.org.uk
CAN CANNOT BE SERIOUS
Congestion Charge Pushers Taken to the Cleaners by MART
Manchester Against Road Tolls (MART) are surprised that Clean Air Now (CAN) have chosen to rebuff our offers to
take on the real causes of pollution in Manchester — the 'Big Beast' private bus companies. Instead they continue to
pick on the already highly taxed motorist. Euro IV engined cars, for example, are extremely clean — it takes 50
modern cars to equal the emissions of a car built in 1970. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for diesel bus
engines.
Manchester's Piccadilly bus station is reputedly the second most polluted spot in the country (with the most polluted
spot being inside the London congestion charge zone), yet CAN seem determined to compound Manchester Council's
10 year record of failure in tackling pollution by giving the green light for bus companies to continue to use the most
polluting types of buses.
Buses and indeed any vehicle with a large diesel power unit that repeatedly puts the engine under load — like pulling
away from bus stops — emit the two most carcinogenic chemicals known to science, labelled 3-NBA and 1,8-DNP (*).
Buses are also heavy emitters of nitrogen dioxide and general particulates, both of which are respiratory irritants.
The carefully timed accusation by CAN that MART's billboard campaign contravenes ASA standards smacks of
desperation. It is common knowledge that the chosen method of congestion charge collection will be a TAG fitted to
each car windscreen. An onboard GPS TRACKING unit will replace this system as early as five years on, in order to
switch to distance based charging. Recent embarrassing government leaks suggest that ANPR cameras used to
enforce congestion charging will track drivers under the guise of anti-terrorism measures. The regressive nature of the
congestion charge is reminiscent of the Poll Tax of the eighties and is just as unpopular. Congestion will be made
worse using bus lanes to cause 'busgestion.'
CAN are, however, correct in their claim that the £5 figure used on the billboards is misleading. Manchester's
authorities have stated openly that the £5 figure is set at today's prices. By 2012 the charge is likely to be much higher
than £5. The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) has been reluctant to break down some very
optimistic profit forecasts. Given this and the likely heavy overheads of the charging scheme, MART suspects that the
toll tax rates will have to be hiked, just as they were in London.
MART and ABD spokesman Sean Corker said: "The AGMA are clearly not convinced by their own loaded surveys,
which is why they are refusing to hold the ultimate democratic consultation — a referendum."
NOTES
* Exhaust emissions from large diesel engines have been shown to contain the two most carcinogenic chemicals
known to science, 3-nitrobenzanthrone (3-NBA) (Dr Hitomi Suzuki, University of Kyoto) and 1,8-dinitropyrene. In
standard Ames Tests of carcinogenicity, minuscule amounts (approx 0.0000003 grammes) of these pollutants cause 6
and 5 million mutations respectively. These genotoxins are far worse than the banned food colouring Sudan 1, which
gave a positive Ames test 'only in isolated cases' and 'negative results in the HGPRT, UDS and chromosomal
aberration tests' (Federal Institute for Risk Assessment). In other recent tests, 3-NBA was found to cause DNA
migration in human liver cancer and lung cancer cells (V H Mersch-Sundermann et al, 2003).
City's asthma alert
PICCADILLY Gardens and its adjoining bus station have been named among Britain's worst air quality blackspots.
Readings have shown some of the highest concentrations of the sooty particles linked to asthma and other breathing
problems.
Manchester Evening News
Ed: Latest news is that the labour council of Manchester has ignored the democratic majority; unlike Birmingham, and
gone for the charging because they want the government funding.
TRAFFIC SPIES TO JOIN FIGHT AGAINST CRIME
The details of journeys taken by millions of motorists are to be handed to police under a government “Big Brother”
plan to use road pricing technology in the fight against crime.
Police would be given instant access to number plate data from “smart” cameras monitoring congestion in cities and
the movement of traffic on Britain’s major roads.
The proposal to pass to police a huge amount of data tracking individual journeys has caused a split between the
Home Office and the Department for Transport, which fears that it will set back plans for road pricing.
Plans to enable police to track journeys throughout England and Wales were revealed in a document mistakenly
released by the Home Office yesterday.
The disclosure came as the department announced that the Metropolitan Police was to get access to automatic
number plate recognition data from 1,500 congestion charge cameras in London to help in the fight against terrorism.
But the document inadvertently released by the Home Office disclosed a much more sweeping plan for the wider use
of smart camera technology in the fight against all crime rather than just terrorism.
It also discloses that ministers were warned that the Metropolitan Police plan was likely to cause a “high” level of
controversy.
A Home Office spokesman said last night: “The decision to allow the Metropolitan Police access to data held by
Transport for London linked to the congestion charge had only been taken after consultation within government.”
He added that any move to allow number plate data to be sent in bulk from third parties to the police to assist crime
fighting would only be taken after very extensive consultation across government.
Opposition politicians and civil liberties groups expresed alarm at the wider plans and cautioned that the proposals
would give the State unprecedented access to car drivers’ movements.
Nick Clegg, the Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesman, said: “With this unintended act of open government the
disingenuous attitude of ministers towards public fears about a creeping surveillance State is revealed for all to see.
“Bit by bit, vast computer data-bases are being made interoperable and yet the Government seems to be running
scared of a full and public debate on the safeguards needed to make such information sharing acceptable.”
Mr Clegg accused ministers of using the announcement that the Metropolitan Police was to get real-time access to
number plate data from the congestion charge database as a basis for much more far-reaching proposals affecting
millions of motorists.
The London plan means that police will know the moment that a suspect vehicle enters and leaves the capital’s
congestion zone but the system will only apply for operations involving “national security”.
However, under the plans being studied by the Home Office, police throughout England and Wales would get realtime access to number plate data from cameras operated by the Highways Agency and local authorities. If other cities
adopt congestion charging or road pricing based on automatic number plate recognition, police would get instant
access to the data. It would allow them to track vehicles moving around the country.
The paper released by mistake discloses that the Home Office sees the deal with the Metropolitan Police as an
“immediate solution pending the introduction of planned government agreement on proposed legislation which would
allow the bulk transfer of automatic number plate recognition data from third parties to the police for all crime-fighting
purposes”.
Number plate data handed over to the police would allow officers to check against an existing “hot list” of vehicles on
which there is intelligence. Officers would be able to track vehicles linked to individuals in whom they are interested,
the paper said.
It also makes clear that crime analysts would use the data to identify unknown vehicles travelling regularly with a
known suspect vehicle, enabling them to identify crime suspects. Offi-cers would also be able to identify vehicles in
particular geographical areas after a crime has been committed.
The paper, dated June 4 this year, discloses that the Department for Transport had concerns about the proposal to
give Metropolitan Police access to congestion charge data, “linked to wider concerns about pri- vacy and
proportionality”. It cautions that even allowing the Metropolitan Police access to congestion charge data on the ground
of national security was likely to cause a “high” level of controversy. “Civil rights groups and privacy campaigners may
condemm this as further evidence of an encroaching ‘Big Brother’ approach to policing and security, particularly in
light of the recent epetition on roads pricing,” it said.
Shami Chakrabarti, the director of Liberty said: “It is one thing to ask the public for special measures to fight the grave
threat of terrorism, but when that becomes a Trojan horse for mass snooping for more petty matters it only leads to a
loss of trust in government.”
There are 1,500 congestion charge cameras recording number plates in London and a further 1,140 operated by the
Highways Agency, including 108 deployed in the West Midlands. Fifty are on the M42.
The Times
SCOTLAND GETS MOTORCYCLE GUIDANCE
The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG UK) welcomes the Scottish Executive's publication of the 'Motorcycling in
Scotland - Guidance for Local Authorities' document which has just been released.
The document will have far reaching benefits to motorcyclists and highlights the excellent work carried out on behalf of
riders by MAG Scotland’s Regional Representative, Steve Wykes and the motorcycling community working in
partnership with the Scottish Executive.
The guidance recognises motorcycling as a legitimate form of transport which has clear benefits to society by helping
to reduce traffic congestion, reduce environmental damage and increase social mobility.
The guidance also recognises the special needs of motorcycling, in particular, safety policy, secure parking, access to
Bus Lanes and Advance Stop Lines. The report strongly recommends Local Authorities to establish motorcycle forums
as a means of engaging motorcyclists to help inform local transport plans.
David Short, MAG Campaigns Manager said, “This is a tremendous step forward for motorcyclists and the Scottish
Executive should be congratulated on their innovative approach to ensure that motorcyclists are where they should
be, fully integrated, fully consulted with and working in partnership with those tasked with formulating transport policy.
It also demonstrates the collective influence of the motorcycling community and what can be achieved when we all
pull together."
A NEW LOGO? A NEW WEBSITE?
Reasons for change.
Hi all. Recently there have been image changes to the National Logo and website and although the structure of MAG
has been used in the decision making process to ensure democracy has taken place I am anxious to make sure that
this information reaches all corners of the membership and also that you all have an understanding about why and
how these changes came about.
Last year when MAG was in a better financial state than it had been from some time and David Short was appointed,
we were able to take advantage of having an extra pair of hands on board. Instead of the fire fighting, which Trevor
Baird and I had been doing prior to this, we were able to stand back and take stock of where we were as an
organisation.
David Short needed to get to know us all and the workings within MAG, so we asked him to spend time in the office as
well as meeting all the key players in our organisation - both paid staff and volunteers. We asked him, with a fresh pair
of eyes coming in, to do a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats).
He highlighted that one of the biggest weaknesses to the stability of our organisation [which we already knew],
was/still is, our reliance on events for the financial running. i.e. if one of the big fund raisers e.g. Stormin or Farmyard
Party couldn't run one year, then this would have a massive impact on our ability to continue in our present format. It
has been said for years that we need to increase our membership to at least 20,000 to give us this stability. To do this
we need to appeal to the wider biking community in a way that we have not done before. We need to present that
broad community with an image of MAG that they feel instinctively comfortable with.
We are developing and enjoying significant success in the political arena, where we have been invited to address the
Commons Select Committee on transport and other decision making government bodies, to share our expertise and
views with them.
We are having success in projecting a positive image within the biking press and we must ensure that awareness of
these changes reaches the entire motorcycle community and attracts their attention.
We are crucially aware of the importance of retaining the grass roots support of our core membership and all these
changes have been made with the full consultation of the democratically elected National Committee which has
unanimously endorsed them. Though MAG is evolving, the change in image has not diluted commitment to core
principles by one iota. We can and we will take all of our existing members with us and welcome many more.
If we do not evolve we will become extinct, as an organisation, as a movement and as a family if you will. We will
wither and die on the vine.
Now is the time for us to really make a difference by being pro active, not re active. By ensuring that motorcycling has
an equal status in transport plans as other valid forms of transport we shall endeavour to protect motorcycling for the
next generation.
To do this it is crucial to attract more members.
Change is never easy. However having analysed our problems and deciding we needed to do something about them,
we had to try to make sure that the changes would be the very best for MAG.
So, starting in October of last year we, the National Committee, started on this journey to try actively to increase our
membership. Never an easy task and one that previous managements had always tried to tackle. We had been trying
to update our image via the website for some 4 years and in 2006 after I’d been Chair for seven months, we
concluded that this could not be done just using our volunteers. The membership had been crying out for some years
for an update to reflect the reality that we are an organisation that speaks for motorcyclists today.
We consulted a new company at the cutting edge of Market Research, whose individual members had a tried and
trusted record of delivering the goods to do this and we soon realised that once we started with this process, the visual
changes we made would have to be consistent across the whole public face of our organisation.
Questions were asked as to how we arrived at the logo.
1. We felt it retained the essence of our organisation, touching on the helmets issue as it does.
2. The helmet logo has been significant throughout the development of our organistion e.g. Bikers are Voters,
where we had the image of posting votes through the front of the visor.
3. The two different styles of helmet were designed to suggest that we have a broad appeal to motorcyclists.
4. Having two helmets suggests that you are never alone in MAG and that we are a broad church.
Research on opinions was made using existing MAG members via telephone calls, i.e. cold calling by market
researchers organised by Creo, the company whose services we have employed. Bike Forums on various websites
were viewed, one to one interviews with bikers were conducted, including interviews with non MAG members, and the
final logo was decided upon after consultation with Regional Reps at National Committee meetings.
We must not lose sight of the fact that in order to reach out to the wider motorcycling community we must listen to
what that community is telling us.
The market research has clearly shown that MAG is not fully reflecting the complexion of the broader motorcycling
world. We have to move with the times, and avoid becoming insular.
Looking at the Logo and the website: ‘MAG – The heart and soul of biking. Are you passionate enough?’
The question appeals to the conscience of the reader.
Decisions were not taken lightly. I’m sure many of us remember hours spent choosing the colour and design of a rally
T shirt.
Meetings with the National Committee regarding these issues have taken place in Oct and Dec 2006, February 2007
and twice in April of this year. Overwhelming and unanimous support was given by the National Committee to the
course we have taken. In addition e mail reports were sent in between meetings to National Committee members.
The National Committee is your elected body and its voting members are your Regional Reps who pass information
from and to the grass roots membership. At times they have to make decisions on your behalf, I urge you to support
them. They are also volunteers and are trying to do their very best for MAG.
Yes there is a financial cost involved, though not as much as has been speculated in the biking press. However the
message being sent to the wider biking community is that we are prepared to invest the money that you the members
raise to protect the future of motorcycling.
Please do not think that in confining consultation to the NC we are expressing contempt for members’ views. The
breadth of the presentational changes we are making would have rendered a nation-wide consultation impractical.
Those who remember how long the last debate over the changed logo raged, will recognize that there are times when
the leaders of organisations have to accept the responsibility of making decisions. The present dynamics within the
motorcycle world as the threat of surveillance-based controls grows at the same time as our lobbying capability has
been dramatically enhanced, convinced us that this is the time to make a great leap forward.
Organisations that rest on their laurels become staid and lose ambition. Please remember that we are undergoing an
identity makeover not an ethical makeover. No MAG principle is threatened by the cosmetic changes being made.
We’re just trying to broaden our appeal. Your National Committee is determined that MAG will respond to all the
threats and utilize all the opportunities currently available to it and we hope that all members will support us in this.
Jane Chisholm, Chair MAG UK
CANCELLATION OF SECURE CAMPING AT DONNINGTON GRAND PRIX
Members who noticed the adverts for the Moto GP camping event planned by MAG may have noticed that the advert
did not appear in the latest issue of The ROAD.
A problem arose with huge opposition from the local community spearheaded by one or two particularly
uncompromising characters. Despite strenuous assurances from MAG in face to face meetings the ring leaders of the
opposition sustained their efforts to prevent us holding the event. Concerns focussed on anticipated noise and general
disturbance in addition to which the prime objector conjured up a fantasy about intravenous drug users attending.
We were made to negotiate a variety of legal obstacles culminating in the timing of a final meeting that was so close to
the event that it would have risked a great deal of MAG¹s money had permission not been granted.
The decision was therefore made to cancel the event but proceed with the legal process in an attempt to secure
permission in principle so that we can revisit the opportunity next year. Thanks to the persistent, well researched and
eloquent presentation of Pete Walker the license application was approved whereupon it was explained that we have
cancelled this year¹s event but will be hoping to hold it next year, a position that was sympathetically received by the
local authorities.
The starting premise of the GP camping weekend is to provide secure camping and bike parking with additional
entertainment provided for those visiting the Donington GP.
MAG apologises to those whose hopes that a civilised MAG camping opportunity would enhance the appeal of
attending the G have been dashed. We did everything in our power to pull this one off, effort that has not been
wasted as it has paved the way for next year.
PRESS RELEASES
BIKERS SHOULD BE SEEN AND HEARD SAYS ROAD SAFETY TEAM
"GET yourself heard" is the message Devon County Council is giving to motorcyclists who regularly use the county's
road.
This summer marks the launch of a major consultation for bikers, allowing them to comment on the various issues that
affect their safety and how they feel it can be improved.
The campaign will be promoted using a humorous pro-bike video which will be circulated through a viral email
campaign and displayed via websites such as YouTube. It is hoped that this marketing technique will encourage the
'hard to reach' groups to take part.
The consultation is part of Devon County Council Road Safety Team's ongoing motorcycle safety campaign, 'Bringing
Bikers Out of the Blindspot'. The Blindspot scheme was launched in 2004 with a similar survey, and the responses
from that were used to direct the campaign and launch initiatives to tackle issues that bikers felt posed the greatest
risk.
Some of the initiatives which have been introduced include:
Better training options for riders;
Education campaigns aimed at car drivers to look for riders;
Intervention courses for riders as an alternative to prosecution;
A Devon County Council motorcycle audit team to check the condition of road surfaces from a biker's perspective;
Improved road conditions through promotion of issues such as the diesel spills initiative 'Spiller Killer';
Courses in schools for scooter riders.
Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "It's incredibly important
that motorcyclists take this opportunity to have their say on Devon's roads. The motorcycle safety campaign has
already put in place many services for improving their safety from the last survey three years ago. Now we need the
help of the biking community again."
Motorcyclists are seen as one of the most vulnerable road users and improving their safety is crucial. Despite only
making up only 1% of all traffic, they historically account for up to a third of all fatal crashes in the county.
However, 2006 saw the number of riders killed on Devon's road fall to one of the lowest in recent record with a total of
seven.
Michael Newcombe, Devon County Council Road Safety Officer, said: "Motorcycle safety is a major priority for the
road safety team and we need bikers' help in order to reduce casualty numbers. The survey shouldn't take much more
than 10 minutes to complete and this feedback will help us achieve the goal of lowering the number of those being
killed and injured."
Andy Poulastides from Three Edged Productions, who directed the marketing film, said: "As an avid biker myself, I
was pleased to be offered the chance to write and direct a short piece for the 'get yourself heard' campaign. I hope the
film proves effective in bringing bikers together and making their voices heard."
The consultation is available in paper form by emailing [email protected], but riders are being encouraged to give
their views online at www.devon.gov.uk/bikers.
By having their say, riders have the opportunity to highlight matters that affect them most and direct the Blindspot
campaign to target these issues.
Adrian Lane
The promotional video can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4Gqmfa7qog or DVD copies can be made
available.
You can also view the video by downloading the file Here 2.4mb
For further information please contact Michael Newcombe, Road Safety Officer, 01271 388496.
Councillor Margaret Rogers 01297 680384.
Andy Poulastides, Three Edged Productions, on 07951055679.
DRINK DRIVING MENACE TO MOTORCYCLISTS
Issued 21st July 2007
The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG UK) welcomes the government's new anti drink drive campaign which is launched
today, (Friday 20th July 2007). The campaign specifically targets those most likely to drink and drive who have been
identified as male drivers between the ages of 17 and 29 years of age.
Previous campaigns have involved 'shock horror' imagery but research has shown that this approach makes less of
an impact on a generation of youngsters brought up on graphic, violent video games.
This campaign focuses on the shameful consequences of a drink drive conviction which results in the loss of licence
and mobility, loss of job and lifestyle, let alone the personal misery caused by death and injury.
Campaigns Manager David Short said, ' Motorcyclists are often the victims of dangerous and careless driving by
others. This danger is further compounded if the driver is under the influence of drink. Anything which tackles the
menace of drink driving has got to be a good thing and we fully support the Department of Transport and the police in
ridding the roads of the menace of drinking and driving.'
PEAK PROTECTION FOR MOTORCYCLISTS
Issued 9th July 2007
BikeGuard, a continuous barrier attachment specifically designed to offer protection to motorcyclists, has recently
been installed on one of the most hazardous stretches of road in England for motorcyclists. Highway Care have
supplied and fitted the barrier attachment on A537 Cat & Fiddle road in the Peak District National Park.
The Cat & Fiddle Bank was chosen by Cheshire County Council as a prime site needing this preventative measure
against motorcyclists suffering high severity injuries from impacting the support posts on the existing safety barrier.
The A537 has amazing views of the surrounding countryside and is therefore used by many bikers.
However, this road contains numerous sweeping bends, hills and dips which present a hazard to motorcyclists riding
at higher speeds.
With BikeGuard in place, a fallen biker will now be redirected along the smooth continuous surface of the barrier and
no longer be highly vulnerable to severe injury or worse from contact with vertical barrier posts.
This system is approved for use in the UK by its inclusion on the HA list of Approved Road Restraint Systems.
Jim Gibbins, a Senior Road Safety Engineer for Cheshire County Council commented: “During the summer, groups of
motorcyclists ride to the Cat & Fiddle pub and effectively use the A537 as a ‘race track’ as the route is considered to
be quite challenging in places. Motorcyclists on the A537 make up less than 2% of road traffic but account for 75% of
deaths or seriously injured collisions that have occurred on the route between 2004 and 2006.
It is hoped that providing BikeGuard at this location will reduce the severity of any future motorcycle collisions,
however it is still considered that continued Police enforcement and further education is required to change the
attitude and behaviour of motorcycle riders using this route.”
1. View MAGs Crash Barrier Information Here
2. FEMAs “Road to Success” Here
3. Highway Care Ltd, based in the South East and in the West Midlands, is the supplier of road safety products and
services for use on high speed trunk roads and lower speed municipal roads.
BikeGuard is a lower steel beam barrier attachment which fits below existing safety barrier to improve safety
performance when impacted by motorcyclists.
The metal panel protects the motorcyclist from injuring themselves on exposed support posts of existing barrier.
The development of a special hanging bracket means that not only can the BikeGuard be attached to open box beam
and tensioned corrugated beam barriers, but other recently developed safety barriers can also be fitted to BikeGuard.
The system has been tested to the European Standard CEN 1317 and is approved for use by the Highways Agency.
www.highwaycare.co.uk
THINK! Motorcycle Academy Attracts Big Name Riders And Fans!
Issued 3rd July 2007
On the circuit, the established stars have been battling it out with a horde of young riders with four rookies in the top
factory teams providing a strong challenge to the established order. Similarly, the Academy has seen regular
appearances from both veteran BSB Champions and these new young riders, with racers dedicating their valuable
time to taking part on the THINK! unit.
John Reynolds and fellow three-time BSB Champ Niall Mackenzie have been frequent interviewees, balancing
THINK! with their team mentor roles at Rizla Suzuki and Virgin Media Yamaha respectively. Reynolds comments, “I’ve
been associated with THINK! for several years now and as I’m not racing I have more time to really engage with the
fans at every race. I enjoy the interviews as they give me a chance to reflect on my own racing and some of my road
riding experiences.”
Top BSB stars who have visited the Academy both to talk about racing and safety while spending time with fans
include: Leon Camier, Tommy Hill, Cal Crutchlow, James Haydon, Michael Rutter, Steve Plater, Michael Laverty,
Scott Smart and Stuart Easton.
Fans have also had the opportunity to listen and learn from respected companies such as Alpinestars, Arai, Shoei,
Knox, Metzeler, Kawasaki, KTM and Yamaha.
Whilst BSB has attracted live terrestrial TV and huge crowds, the THINK! Motorcycle Academy has also been creating
its own high profile, having featured on many TV and Radio broadcasts.
Visiting fans have been able to quiz local Bikesafe officers who man the unit all weekend, on road positioning, extra
training and rights on the highway, whilst a special interactive Honda Simulator teaches riders how to give their bikes
“the skills they deserve”.
With all the latest 2007 bikes on display, big screens, interactive web stations and a draw to upgrade four lucky fans to
full VIP Hospitality at every race, the THINK! Motorcycle Academy continues to attract visitors for a whole range of
reasons!
Motorcyclists can engage and benefit from THINK! through the THINK! Motorcycle Academy online at
www.thinkmotorcycleacademy.co.uk
THINK! Road Safety is an official sponsor of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship 2007
THINK! is the Department for Transport’s Road Safety campaign
THINK! encourages motorcyclists to GIVE YOUR BIKE THE SKILLS IT DESERVES with information, advice, training
and safety tips
Dr Stephen Ladyman, motorcycle enthusiast and Road Safety Minister until June 2007, launched this year's THINK!
Motorcycle Academy at Brands Hatch on Bank Holiday Monday; April 9th.
Motorcyclists can get actively involved with THINK! by visiting the THINK! Motorcycle Academy at every round of the
2007 Bennetts British Superbike Championship:
Round 1 Brands Hatch GP April 7/8/9
Round 2 Thruxton April 13/14/15
Round 3 Silverstone April 27/28/29
Round 4 Oulton Park May 5/6/7
Round 5 Snetterton May 18/19/20
Round 6 Mondello Park June 15/16/17
Round 7 Knockhill June 29/30/1
Round 8 Oulton Park July 13/14/15
Round 9 Mallory Park July 20/21/22
Round 10 Croft August 10/11/12
Round 11 Cadwell Park August 25/26/27
Round 12 Donington Park September 21/22/23
Final Motorcycle Rider Resting Place
We've seen several funeral undertakers around the world offering a motorcycle hearse to go on your final journey.
Nothing new there. But, what is new, is that you can now be cremated, and your ashes stored in an urn in the shape
of motorcycle fuel tank.
Motorcycle Memorials offer several custom colours for the fuel tanks/urns.
There are three different styles urns to chose from; free-standing, full size or half tank.
Like most Harley-Davidson motorcycles, they offer a customization service of which Orange County Choppers would
be proud.
You can get different types of wooden plaques, and you can even include a picture of the deceased person, engraved
or attached to the plaque.
www.motorcyclememorials.com
THE MOTORCYCLE ACTION GROUP MAG UK) AND FEMA
Over the past few months Network has had a concentration of issues regarding the work being done by FEMA and the
structure/make up of the organisation.
This month we concentrate on our work with FEMA with an overview of some of the recent issues and the involvement
of MAG UK in FEMA.
MAG in FEMA
Both rider organisations in the UK are represented at FEMA however this representation depends on the strength of
participation within FEMA and thus has an impact on the issues within Europe and the UK.
To show examples of this I would like to concentrate on the issue of motorcycle friendly crash barriers/wire rope
barriers, Daytime Running Lights and the 3rd European Driving Licence Directive, there are other issues which I will
mention later and what the future holds for FEMA.
Crash Barriers
Back in 2000 the Federation of European Motorcyclists' Associations (FEMA) published the 'Final report of the
motorcyclists and crash barriers project'.
This project developed recommendations to road authorities for reducing injuries to motorcyclists in collision with
crash barriers. The project was supported by the Directorate General for Energy and Transport of the European
Commission.
Since the report was published several national FEMA member organisations have been working with road
authorities on improving existing crash barriers and adapting them to the needs of motorcyclists, but there are still
difficulties and obstacles that motorcyclists' organisations encounter.
In May 2005 due to work carried out by MAG Netherlands on motorcycle friendly crash barriers and seeking a
commitment from the Dutch Government on the removal of wire rope barriers, three of FEMAs National
Organisations, MAG Netherlands, NMCU (Norway) and MAG UK formed a FEMA working group on crash barriers.
The group first met in the Netherlands, over a few coffees in a service station after travelling by motorcycle from their
respective countries and formulated a strategy. The all day meeting resulted in the idea of producing a document
with an inventory of existing motorcyclist-friendly crash barrier projects all over Europe, using information and data
provided by all 22 FEMA member organisations.
After collecting all this information the FEMA Working Group produced the document, the “Road to Success” with the
function as a lobbying tool for riders' right organisations in their own country. The document included conclusions
and recommendations and was finished in June 2005.
The main goal of the lobby by motorcyclists will be to get motorcycles included in the European standard for testing
crash barriers, hopefully forcing national road authorities to improve motorcyclists' safety by improving crash
barriers.
In July 2005 MAG UK produced its own UK document on crash barriers and started its campaign in the UK with a
dedicated campaigning website.
Again in July 2005 European motorcyclists met with their elected representatives at the European Parliament for the
9th MEP Ride. The event focussed on the Third Driving Licences Directive and the Road Traffic Safety report, both
which were currently being discussed within the European Parliament.
FEMA presented the “Road to Success” document on guard rails with a display of two samples of guard rails fitted
with a motorcycle-friendly device. MAG was able to present its own document to UK MEPS.
In April 2006 FEMA launched an initiative with the support of Mrs Wortmann-Kool MEP, starting with event in the
European Parliament which had the aim of leading to a CEN standard for crash barriers and had a secondary aim of
highlighting that motorcyclists’ needs are often neglected when it comes to road infrastructure design and
maintenance.
During this time work was carried out by other national organisations on crash barriers, notably in Spain and
Portugal. MAG Netherlands and NMCU in Norway continued to have success ion the Netherlands and in the UK
sections of motorcycle friendly crash barriers started to appear.
The issue was brought forward at a European level through the TRANS Committee in the European Parliament.
MAG UK with MAG Netherlands and FEMA Representatives attended the committee meetings and corresponding
and meeting MEPS at their offices in the European Parliament.
Finally, well almost, in January this year FEMA was granted the liaison status with the European Committee for
Standardisation (CEN) Technical Committee (TC) 226 "Road equipment" as representative of motorcycle riders.
Because of experience based on numerous accidents reported by its members (where guardrails did cause more
severe injuries to the rider), FEMA is in a position to contribute to achieving the best possible performance
requirements for standards in this field. FEMA will particularly follow the work of WG 1 “Crash barriers, safety fences,
guard rails and bridge parapets”.
Concurrent with its access CEN standardization working group, FEMA is being involved in APROSYS - an
Integrated European research project on advanced protection systems – in developing a new test procedure for
motorcyclist-road-infrastructure interaction. Guidelines to design motorcyclist friendly roadside infrastructure should
be one of the expected results of the sub-group dedicated to motorcycle safety.
FEMA will also be involved somewhat in the development of a “motorcycle” crash test dummy, previous dummies
were adapted from car use and do not reflect the reaction or data needed to be collected in motorcycle crashes.
DRL (Day Time Running Lights)
Another issue that MAG has worked hard within FEMA is that of DRL (Day Time Running Lights).
In November 2006 MAG submitted a response to the European Commission’s consultation paper on DRLs.
FEMA also submitted a paper to the EU Commission and through the UN (United Nations) working party as
representative of the International Co-operation Fund.
“The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), the Motorcycle Riders' Foundation (MRF), the Federation of European
Motorcyclists' Associations (FEMA) and the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) have set up an
International Co-operation Fund with the objective of ensuring an efficient representation of motorcyclists at the United
Nations where Worldwide Standards for Bikes and road safety measures are developed.”
FEMA’s response to the European Commission consultation on Daytime Running Lights summarized motorcyclists’
concerns about DRL, synthesize studies against the introduction DRL, propose a different approach to road safety
debate, and finally define and explain its position statement opposing EU harmonization in this matter. MAG UK’s
then Research Officer analysed data from European countries to identify discrepancies in casualty statistics in
countries applying DRL legislation compared to other that do not.
The MAG UK representative attended a seminar in Brussels in late 2006, organised by Fédération Internationale de
l’Automobile (FIA) following the close of the EC consultation on DRL. The seminar brought together the various
stakeholders to discuss facts and views on the mandatory fitting of DRL across Europe to all vehicles.
Along with FEMA representatives the MAG UK representative was able to speak during the debate, with the
motorcycle aspects covered by the FEMA representatives. The MAG UK representative concentrated on calling for
car manufacturers to take responsibility for the bad design of car A-Pillars that hide motorcyclists, cyclists and
pedestrians; not to rely on gimmicks like DRL and called on the FIA or its Foundation to spend its time and effort on
motorcycle awareness programmes for car drivers.
As FEMA pointed out: “Representatives of FEMA and MAG UK, very concerned by the EC’s intention to introduce
compulsory DRL for all vehicles throughout Europe, challenged the road safety benefits of DRL, questioning the
validity of the research on which the European Commission’s proposal was based and sought reassurance that the
consultation process within the European Union would not be negated by decisions taken at the United Nations.
What we are talking about is Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which is basically a separate lighting system, normally
fitted in the vehicle’s original headlights and of low intensity wattage or candela (power output) by the vehicle
manufacturer or as an aftermarket part.
We are not talking about AHO (Automatic Headlights On) which is presently “fitted” to the majority of motorcycles by
motorcycle manufacturers and has been voluntary since 2001. The headlights are automatically switched on with the
ignition and do not have an off/sidelight/on/ switch fitted in the handle bar switch gear.
Since this meeting FEMA is discussing its strategy and one of the main concerns that the issue will be moved from the
European Institutions and Parliament to the UNEC UN-ECE’s Transport Division. Basically from a “democratic”
decision through consultation to a technical regulation, which must be adapted by European member states, by
bureaucrats, Government Officials and safety experts.
Third European Driving Licence Directive
A major issue tackled by MAG over two years both in the UK and naturally in Europe through FEMA.
I will make no apologies here but MAG UK led the campaign in the UK and pushed the campaign within FEMA with
other member organisations such as MAG Netherlands, NMCU Norway and SMC Sweden.
The campaign lobbied and campaigned in the EU Parliament, in the UK Parliament with MEP’s and MP’s over the two
years.
MAG UK was part of meetings held in the UK with government officials on the implementation of the directive in the
UK.
MAG was instrumental in the organisation of the demonstration in Brussels and organised the UK demonstration in
July 2006 attended by over 1,000 riders.
MAG UK representative attended TRANS Committee meetings in the EU Parliament and secured the support of
Conservative MEPs.
During this time MAG Representatives were also present on the discussions and vote on the “Road Safety Action
Programme” (RSAP) which has the objective of reducing by 50% the number of fatalities on the road by 2010.
Our main concerns was that for motorcycling it was important to look into the causes of motorcycle accidents, in order
to identify valid remedies and that motorcycling was not treated to bias by legislators and decision makers. MAG UK
assisted in writing the FEMA response to the RSAP.
Right up to the final vote in the EU Parliament in Strasbourg MAG UK campaigned, with a final joint press release with
the Conservatives in Europe and MAG Sport rider, 15year old, Alex Gault’s case study on what the directive would
meant for a new and young rider – motorcyclings’ future.
Unfortunately despite the effort on the 14th December 2006 the European Parliament voted in favour of the 3rd
European Driving Licence Directive.
However due to this rigorous lobbying and campaigning in Europe and the UK the UK Government at that time stated
that they would consult with motorcycle representatives, to deliver the motorcycle aspects of the directive in the UK.
In May this year MAG UK attended a stakeholder event regarding the implementation of the directive in 2013.
The event was intended to “kick off” a process of informal discussions over a period of 15 to 18 months before a
formal consultation on options on implementing the directive in the UK. Attending from the European Commission was
Alexander Von Campenhausen.
Worrying was the Commission’s representative comment that the power of bigger motorcycles made them more
dangerous, a position repudiated by MAG UK and FEMA.
Overall because of MAG UK’s involvement, in all aspects of the directive in Europe over two years, we would like to
think that the situation that we are now at in the UK, with the consultation on implementing the directive in the UK,
reflects MAG UK’s commitment to the issue.
Forthcoming Issues
FEMAs full time employees, Aline Delhaye, (General Secretary) and Virginie Peters (Campaign Officer) based at the
FEMA Offices in Brussels keep FEMA member organisations fully briefed on the issues and there is a constant
request for information with regards to national issues that reflect on European issues and vice versa.
Issues that are on the agenda are:
Forthcoming MEP Ride in Strasbourg: The main themes for this year’s ride will focus on the EU Commission Green
Paper on Urban Transport, which will be adopted in autumn, and FEMA revised Agenda on Motorcycle Safety.
Due to the recent decisions taken at the European Parliament – FEMA will also concentrate on the Directive
Infrastructure which is being re discussed in the TRANS Committee as the committee has initially rejected the
document but certain parts beneficial recommendations for motorcycling.
MAG UK will be lobbying MEP’s and representatives will be attending the ride.
An issue that MAG representatives have brought up has moved forward regarding FEMA’s external communications
to politicians and EU Institutions, this will include the relaunch of FEMA’s newsletter which will be available to
members and affiliated clubs, allowing riders to have an “eye” on the issues.
The Future
FEMA is moving from strength to strength and the future for riders’ representation in Europe is looking bright.
The FEMA secretariat or to be more precise FEMA’s General Secretary – Aline Delhalye, Campaigns Officer –
Virginie Peters, Administration Officer - Christina Gesios continue to represent riders’ interests to the fullest extent in
Europe and providing knowledge on the issues that ultimately affects motorcycling in the UK.
Joining the “team” is Elaine Hardy as FEMA’s Research Officer, Elaine was until recently MAG UK’s Research Officer.
As FEMA's Research Officer, her task is to actively involve FEMA in EU (European Union) research projects. The aim
of this involvement is to strategically place FEMA within these EU projects to ensure that the views of riders are
considered and respected.
The objective is to position FEMA as a leader of the motorcycle research community and as a point of reference within
the EU institutions.
Perhaps part of this involvement should be to “educate” individuals regarding motorcycles within these research
projects, for example did you know that a motorcycle has a “steering wheel”.
We could sit back and just let them get on with the work but we need their support as much as they need ours.
MAG UK
MAG UK is planning to host the FEMA “spring” meeting in 2008. Next year will be the 20th Anniversary of FEM/FEMA
and some special events are being planned to celebrate this, which includes the resigning of FEMA European Riders
Charter.
MAGs participation and presence at FEMA has been constant since its formation in 1997 and before this through FEM
which MAG was instrumental in setting up in 1998.
Although we work hard within FEMA we need the support of our members, both full and affiliated clubs.
Membership of MAG UK helps fund FEMA, this gives a gateway to FEMA to utilise our membership to lobby our
representatives in the European Parliament and shows a strong and united organisation in Europe.
MAG UKs strong participation in FEMA also gives a gateway to European riders’ organisations and their expertise to
formulate motorcycling issues.
Trevor Baird
Public Affairs Director MAG UK
Tel: +44 (0)1788 570065
Fax: +44 (0)1788 570052
Email [email protected]
August Network - Campaigns Managers Activities
Following my annual pilgrimage to the TT races and more lately to the World Ducati Week, during the first week in
July, it is back to work and the noble cause of rider’s rights.
Off Road (Vehicles), Registration Bill
Let’s start with some really good news which is that the poorly thought through and totally unnecessary private
members bill put forward by Graham Stringer MP, Blackley Manchester has been withdrawn. Mounting pressure from
the government and the ‘coalition of opposition’ which included MAG contributed to the mass of amendments for the
committee to consider.
This forced Stringer into capitulating and withdrawing the bill at the committee stage and before it went for its third
reading. Stringer has instead accepted an independent review by a ‘task force’ to look at the issues he intended the
bill to address, namely the illegal use of mini motos.
This option had been offered to him by the transport minister Dr Stephen Ladyman at the second reading! Despite this
Stringer persisted with his bill until it became clear, even to him, that with the huge number of amendments it would be
talked out at third reading.
Thank goodness for common sense but it is frustrating when one considers the amount of time and effort that has
gone into meetings, forming alliances and tabling amendments in opposition to the bill. I am sure that Valentino Rossi
is breathing a sigh of relief knowing he doesn’t have to display a number plate on his prototype Motogp bike! I for one
am glad as most of my time has been invested in combating this mad cap bill.
A huge thanks to the many of you who e mailed me and who wrote to MP’s expressing concern.
It did the trick, well done!
New Prime minister and musical chairs in the cabinet and shadow cabinet
Staying with political matters at Westminster level the ‘crowning’ of Gordon Brown as the successor to Tony Blair has
brought with it the usual round of musical chairs and people who were ‘experts’ in one field, now overnight become
‘experts’ in others!
Having just established good working relationships with key players in government it is time for letters to go out
wishing previous incumbents in transport all the best in their new roles and thanking them for their considerations and
for welcoming letters to the new cabinet and shadow teams.
Some responses are already dropping through the letterbox with offers of meetings. These will be some time off now
as Parliament is on summer recess and will not reconvene until October. Time for ‘silly season’ for the press!
Companies banning bikers from riding in the course of their employment.
As mentioned in my July report I was due to meet the staff of ‘Road Safe’ who have been granted a significant budget
from the DfT to progress the ‘Management of Road Risk’ ( MORR), in the workplace. Basically where people, like
Trevor, Mutchy and myself ride our bikes in connection with the company business.
In our increasingly risk averse society some companies are banning people from riding bikes due to the perceived
risk. In reality this is more to do with fear of the compensation culture which is so ingrained in society and companies
reluctance to be drawn into lengthy and expensive compensation claims.
The true reality is that you can properly manage the risk and capitalise on the benefits bikes bring by way of reduced
congestion, reduced environmental impact and greater mobility. ‘Road Safe’ canvassed round for ‘business
champions’ to help with risk management strategies for companies to adopt. I put myself forward and following a very
positive meeting ‘Road Safe’ have welcomed my, and by association MAG’s, involvement to help inform risk
management strategies. At the moment the focus is on ‘white van man’ but by December they will be looking to
expand on the motorcycling theme.
In the meantime Trevor and I had better have a chat on style of Hi Viz vest or Sam Browne belt to wear. Only joking!
DfT Drink Drive Campaign
On 19th July I attended the launch of the Governments new Drink Drive Campaign and had a preview of the publicity
videos and audios which are currently being shown on national TV and played on radio. As bikers we are vulnerable
to the driving antics of incompetent drivers at the best of times and these dangers are compounded if the said driver is
under the influence of drink. On your behalf I have given MAG’s full support to the campaign and a press release is on
the web site to that effect.
How about this for a scary statistic. One in five, or 20%, of all drivers killed in crashes have traces of illegal substances
in their body! Drunk and spaced out. The Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police Med Hughes is calling for an
improvement in the law to clarify the situation regarding driving and drugs. I agree with him.
Non Slip Manhole Covers
This campaign originally initiated in the Western Region has taken a step forward nationally. I raised the matter as an
agenda item at the July meeting of the National Motorcycle Council, Traffic management planning and transport
policy sub committee, ( what a mouthful!).The meeting is attended by, amongst others, representatives from the DfT.
The issue is around the current British standard applied to manhole covers which is better than the European standard
but clearly is still lacking in grip when it comes to motor bikes. A commitment has been made to engage with the
British Standards board with a view to improving the standard. We will involve ministerial support, probably from the
shadow roads minister Robert Goodwill MP, in order to give the campaign some momentum.
Transport Forums
This month I attended one of the meetings to inform the North Yorkshire Local Transport Plan. I was the only person
representing motorcycling interests and was able to put forward suggestion regarding the review of road side furniture
and signs, improved parking and the use of bus lanes and advanced stop lines for bikers. An added bonus is that the
County Councillor responsible for transport matters is an old police colleague and who is sympathetic to motorcycling.
We have a one to one meeting planned.
It is essential that we get ourselves involved in these forums. It is quite clear that despite the best efforts of the
Governments Motorcycling Strategy to take into account motorcycling needs this simply does not happen unless
someone is there, in the room, with the relevant document, i.e. the Strategy to wave at people and to use as a lever to
improve our lot. I have been to a number now and always managed to get motorcycling on the agenda and considered
but I simply can’t get round every county and unitary authority in the country. This is where the local MAG political
officers can really make a difference.
All the problems we face whether it be dangerous crash barriers, inadequate parking to name but two stem from a
lack of influence at the very local level. That’s where you really can make a difference. All the help and support you
need is only a phone call away.
Manchester Congestion Charging
This is a thorny issue and I am grateful to Trevor who, in my absence, submitted our position to the Manchester
Council, stating the case for exempting motorcycles from the congestion charge.
After all we are a solution to the problem they are trying to address! I am in liaison with the MCIA and BMF on this one
in order to maximise our ‘critical mass’ and the council have promised to engage in formal consultation before the
plans are finalised.
Currently they have submitted their bid for funding to implement the scheme by 2012.
I will keep you updated and please visit the campaign on our web site for full details.
Campaign to combat motorcycle theft in London
On 31st July I attended a meeting with the Metropolitan police, stolen vehicle team at their offices in north London.
Whilst the overall picture in relation to vehicle crime is well down, the figures belie the fact that motorcycle theft has
remained consistently bad. In London alone, between October 06 and July 07 over 6,500 motorcycles have been
stolen. Of these 1,448 were over 600cc and the remainder under 600cc.
I was attending in both my capacity as a MAG representative and also as chair of the Motorcycle Crime Reduction
Group, (MCRG). Any campaign has to start somewhere and the outcome of this initial meeting was that a Borough
which has a specific problem would be selected and then targeted by way of publicity, support from MAG, MCIA,
insurance companies and those in the field of motorcycle security. This would be backed up with an appropriate
policing strategy.
Roads Policing
At the time of going to press we are still awaiting the outcome of inquiry into Chief Constable Richard Brunstrom. The
delay has been due to the investigating member of the IPCC being off sick though it was anticipated the result would
be known by the end of July. No doubt MCN will have the result on their web site as soon as it comes through.
I still have not had a satisfactory answer from North Yorkshire Police on their application, or not, of the ACPO national
motorcycle enforcement policy so I have ‘winged’ off another letter. In the meantime I have made some telephone
calls to former colleagues who are still in roads policing at the sharp end and they inform me that whilst they were not
applying the policy they were now! Let me know if anyone receives treatment outside the prosecution policy.
Membership
Well you didn’t think I was going to get through my article without mentioning it did you?
In between all of the above I have been meeting with Creo and fine tuning the marketing of the ‘new look’ MAG.
The comments of support from the membership far outweigh the negativity and the recognition we are now receiving
suggests that it is having a positive effect.
Only last week I was in the offices of the Daily Telegraph who want to do a feature in their motoring supplement on
MAG. Now that’s what I call mainstream!
Of course we have to convert all this investment into membership. Adverts alone will not do it. It has to be backed up
by a range of things, articles and letters in magazines, presentations and chats to clubs who are thinking of affiliating
or changing their allegiance from elsewhere. Not forgetting of course the ‘Recruit a friend’.
So lets see some positive letters from the membership in MCN and MCM and round up those motorcycling friends and
get the m joined up!
Bike Safe, Ride Free
David
Campaigns Manager
Deputies
Some dirt bag who got pulled over in a routine traffic stop in Florida ended up "executing" the deputy who stopped
him. The deputy was shot eight times, including once behind his right ear at close range. Another deputy was
wounded and a police dog killed.
A state-wide manhunt ensued. The lowlife was found hiding in a wooded area with his gun. SWAT team officers fired
and hit the guy 68 times.
Now here's the kicker: Naturally, the media asked why they shot him 68 times.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, told the Orlando Sentinel, "That's all the bullets we had."
Awesome!
SCOTS POLICE CHIEF CAUGHT SPEEDING ON NOTORIOUS ROAD
08:50 - 31 July 2007 [Press & Journal]
The Highlands' top police officer has been caught speeding on one of the region's most dangerous roads, the Press
and Journal can reveal.
Chief Constable Ian Latimer of Northern Constabulary was trapped driving at 72mph in a 60mph zone on the A9, a
road where more than 60 people have died since 2002.
Yesterday Mr Latimer, a former president of the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland, admitted the driving
offence in his own force area.
He said: "I made a mistake. On July 1st this year, in daylight on a clear open stretch of road on the A9, I miscalculated
my speed, which was seen to be a maximum of 72mph within a 60mph limit."
The police chief received notice of the offence yesterday. He is expected to be given three points on his licence and a
£60 fixed-penalty fine.
"I am annoyed with myself and accept full responsibility," he said. "Perhaps this will act as a warning to others. It can
be seen quite rightly that the chief constable, in his own force area, is as accountable and subject to the law as any
other individual."
Last night politicians and road safety campaigners said the incident proved Mr Latimer, who has served as head of the
north force for six years, is not above the law.
But Norman Macleod, chairman of the Northern Joint Police Board, who described the incident as "unfortunate" rather
than a serious matter, said the board would be taking the matter no further.
He added: "It's unfortunate for him and for the police that he was in that situation but we can't turn the clock back. He
broke the law and he has to pay the price like anyone else."
Paul Smith, founder of the Safe Speed road safety campaign, based at Tain, said it proved that speed cameras have
not made roads any safer.
"Something is clearly wrong," he said. "Are we to believe that our chief constable is an irresponsible driver?
"The truth is that none of us drive without exceeding the speed limit from time to time. Perhaps Mr Latimer will finally
realise how important it is to target police resources at unsafe, rather than technically illegal, behaviours?
"The truth is that speed cameras catch ordinary, safe and responsible drivers while risky drivers are usually
undetected. That's why speed cameras haven't made our roads safer."
Both Communities Safety Minister Fergus Ewing and Highland Conservative MSP Mary Scanlon admitted that they
too had been caught speeding.
Mr Ewing, MSP for Inverness East, Nairn and Lochaber, said: "I think we should recognise and applaud the chief
constable as he has been completely candid in stating that he is angry with himself for this rare lapse.
"As someone who has had speeding offences in the past like the chief constable is now, I too am very much aware of
the inherent risks of speeding."
Ms Scanlon said driving on the trunk road was a "frustrating experience".
She added: "When there is an opportunity to pick up speed, if only to keep up with the rest of the drivers, most people
take advantage of it.
"I hope that the chief constable will be fined £60 and have three penalty points added to his licence like all the other
mortals who drive too fast. I also hope that he will support the campaign to have the A9 dualled."
Eighteen people have died on roads in the Highlands since the beginning of the year, including four on the A9. It is
unknown how many can be attributed to speeding drivers.
Research has shown that the Highland force area has the highest fatal accident rate per vehicle mile in Scotland.
Northern Constabulary has pointed to three contributory factors to the death rate - drink-driving, a failure to wear
seatbelts and inappropriate speed.
http://tinyurl.com/3a7uz2
VIRUS WARNING
Here is the answer to why your PC doesn't do what you meant it to do!
I thought you would want to know about this e-mail virus.
Even the most advanced programs from Norton or McAfee cannot take care of this one.
It appears to affect those who were born prior to 1965.
Symptoms:
1. Causes you to send the same e-mail twice. (done that!)
2. Causes you to send a blank e-mail. (that too!)
3. Causes you to send e-mail to the wrong person. (Guilty!)
4. Causes you to send it back to the person who sent it to you. (who, me?)
5 Causes you to forget to attach the attachment. (Oh yes done that!)
6. Causes you to hit "SEND" before you've finished. (oh no – not again!)
7. Causes you to hit "DELETE" instead of "SEND." (and I just hate that!)
8. Causes you to hit "SEND" when you should "DELETE." (Oh, No!)
IT IS CALLED THE "C-NILE VIRUS."
Thanks to Mark Miller via the Troll for sending this one, now I know why I've been having problems.
Hope the boffins can sort it out?
EVENT SUBMISSIONS – MAG EVENTS – AFFILIATED CLUBS - MAG SUPPORTED EVENTS
To get your event listed check out the Events List Submissions Page on the MAG UK web site
http://www.mag-uk.org
All MAG events including Affiliated Clubs events are listed free on: MAG UK Website - The Road – Network.
You can also send a flier for your event which will be inserted in Network.
MAG and supported events will be included free of charge.
Affiliated Clubs please contact MAG Central Office for details.
All events are listed with links on http://www.mag-uk.org
ENDS
Network Issued by
Trevor Baird
Public Affairs Director
MAG UK
PO BOX 750
Rugby
CV21 3ZR
Tel: +44 (0)1788 570065
Fax: +44 (0)1788 570052
Email [email protected]
The UK's Leading Riders' Rights Organisation
www.mag-uk.org