Listen to cyclists on Rule 66, say MPs

Proposed changes to Highway Code’s ‘two abreast’ rules come in for criticism from within Parliament

- James Shrubsall 

Concern has already been voiced by cycling bodies and clubs over the changes to Rule 66, which, among other things, governs riding two abreast. They are part of a number of proposed alterations, most of which have been welcomed by cyclists – cars having to allow cyclists a minimum space when overtaking, for example, and a proposed hierarchy of responsibility based on how much danger a vehicle poses.

The new wording for Rule 66, however, states that cyclists can ride two abreast but must single out when a driver wishes to overtake and it’s safe to do so. This is unclear, say cycling groups – who point out that it’s impossible to second-guess when a driver wishes to overtake – and could lead to new conflict over what is already an emotive issue.

Labour’s Kerry McCarthy, MP for Bristol East, is the shadow minister for cycling. She said: “I think the DfT needs to heed the warnings from cycling organisations, that this move could actually endanger cyclists, rather than making it safer for them to cycle on the road.