Walking and Cycling: Government Support

Opened the debate

The MP discussed the importance of walking and cycling, particularly focusing on the benefits for children's health. She highlighted her personal experiences teaching Bikeability courses in a primary school, emphasising the need for all local authorities to embrace active travel training. Trudy Harrison also addressed issues like the lack of bike access among children, suggesting that Active Travel England should prioritise schemes making routes from home to school safer. Furthermore, she touched on the impact of ultra-processed foods and proposed changes in funding models to support active travel infrastructure. She called for inter-ministerial discussions on how to achieve a naturally healthy Britain through coordinated efforts.

Government Response

The Minister acknowledged Trudy Harrison's legacy in promoting active travel. He praised her work on the coast-to-coast route and emphasised the transformative potential of cycling infrastructure projects like the Tynedale superhighway. The Minister also discussed the government’s commitment to cycling and walking, highlighting initiatives such as Bikeability and the funding provided for various cycling routes. He committed to writing to local authorities that are lagging behind in implementing these schemes and pledged support for inter-ministerial collaboration on physical activity. Additionally, he addressed concerns about ultra-processed foods by endorsing a more health-conscious approach towards food production.