BIKES SQUEEZED OFF TRAINS - BRAKE

5.25.00pm GMT Mon 16th Jan 2006

No space for bikes on trains?

On the day that rail company Southern clamp down on cyclists trying to board their trains during peak hours, Liberal Democrat Transport Spokesman, Tom Brake MP, has unveiled research which reveals that nearly two out of three companies running trains to and from London bar bikes during the rush hour.

Commenting on the research, Tom Brake said:

"In a truly integrated transport system, which aimed to protect the environment, commuters would be encouraged to cycle to and from train stations. But we have a disintegrated transport system where people are discouraged from using their bikes."

"It's a shame that so many train companies just put a spoke into cyclists' wheels. More imaginative use of space on trains and more secure cycle parking at stations could both increase the capacity on trains for bikes and reduce the need to travel with bikes."

ENDS