Various surveys are quoted which show that one in three journeys are carried out by bike or on foot. At the same time national transport policy ignores walking and cycling as modes of transport preferring to concentrate on cars. The reasons for this are examined and in particular it is found that government reports tend to ignore journeys under 1.6 km thus distorting the significance of non-motorised modes. Over half of shopping trips, for example, are on foot but the 1.6 km rule results in an apparent demand for weekly motorised shopping. The advantage to health, environment and not least the economy of the green modes are stressed and the author questions the government's wish to ignore them. The author decides that there is a lack of appreciation of the relevance of green modes to a sane, equitable and sustainable transport policy and that the green mode lobby is almost powerless. In conclusion some comfort is drawn from statements made in recent years but the author suggests that it is now time for serious debate.
Abstract