Did you know there is a General Election this year? No, I’m not late catching on, just a bit sceptical about the latest bit of news that has found it’s way to my desktop.

The House of Commons heard Gordon Brown announce yesterday “it is important that we have a strong motorcycling industry in this country”.

Oh really?

That would explain the reason that motorcycle test centres have been reduced from over 200 to 60 since the multi-test centres were introduced to comply with European legislation. As a result there has been a 62% drop in tests taken since the introduction of the test centres.

This is a fact and it’s likely to get worse when the next round of European legislation is introduced with even more steps and hoops for new riders. But it’s OK because Gordon Brown says its important to have a strong motorcycling industry.

The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) reports that during Prime Minister’s Questions Mr Brown was quizzed by the Conservative MP for St Albans Anne Main. She asked him specifically about the issue of motorcycle testing, which has been fundamentally changed since the introduction of European legislation in October 2008.

She highlighted the problems facing motorcyclists wanting to take their test (as above)and Mr Brown commented on the importance of ensuring that the specific questions raised by Anne Main MP on tests be answered and assured the House that the Transport Minister would look at the reported figures.

The MCI say they are looking forward to hearing the further responses on this issue and its political lobbying team will continue to work diligently for the benefit of the whole UK motorcycle industry. With a further piece of European legislation due to be implemented in 2013 it is vital that the motorcycle industry as a whole unites with one voice to work with the Government to help ensure smooth implementation of the Directive and to minimize any possible negative outcomes for the UK.

Steve Kenward MCIAs CEO said. “ The MCI is pleased to hear the motorcycle industry is getting its much needed recognition from the highest quarters. We work tirelessly with Government to create an environment in which motorcycling can flourish and welcomes the Prime Minister’s support.

“ The MCI’s political lobbying is fundamentally important to its activities and it hopes this positive announcement will pave the way for greater Government support and understanding of the critical issues that we need to manage to ensure the growth and sustainability of this financially important industry”

Motorbikin comment: I applaud both MP Anne Main for raising the question and also the MCI for keeping up the pressure on about these issues and also the Motorcycle Action Group for their lobbying on these causes – check out Riders Are Voters for the joint initiatives to get MPs listening to our concerns – but I remain sceptical that the PM is giving this little more than lip service and passing the buck to the Transport Minister. I suspect talking to the Shadow Transport Minister may be more effective, either way I remain unconvinced by the PMs comments…time will tell.
In the meantime I believe life would be a lot worse without the constant lobbying of the MCI and MAG so give them your support, today.