Thank you to everyone who has contacted me about the Government’s cycle safety review.

In August 2018 the Department for Transport launched a consultation which examines the possibility of creating a new offence for cyclists, equivalent to causing death by careless or dangerous driving.

Those who have been in touch argue that the remit of this consultation should be broadened to consider how the law deals with and defines irresponsible and dangerous behaviour by all road users.

I share concerns about road safety and I agree that the Government should instead pursue a full review of all road traffic offences and penalties for all road users, as called for by Cycling UK, Brake and RoadPeace.

I am aware that in 2017, a total of 571 pedestrians and cyclists were killed on Britain’s roads. I want to see real change on this issue, which is why I believe we must reset the UK’s road safety vision and strive for a transport network with zero deaths. In addition, I believe we must reintroduce road-safety targets and set out bold measures that will continuously improve safety standards.

More generally, I think that the Government should take real action to support sustainable transport and revolutionise our transport system through cycling and walking. Indeed, I believe that cycling and walking can simultaneously address air pollution, congestion and public health issues, which is why the Opposition has pledged to boost cycling and walking spending to £10 per head each year.

The Department for Transport’s consultation is expected to run until 5 November 2018. I can assure you that my Labour colleagues and I will call for the consultation’s remit to be broadened at every opportunity and follow developments on this issue closely.