December 9th, 2024.
The National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) and the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) held a joint Parliamentary breakfast in the House of Commons last week. The event brought together members, Parliamentarians and industry stakeholders, who were informed about the significant contributions of the motorcycle sector to the UK economy. The sector is valued at approximately £7 billion and employs around 50,000 people both directly and indirectly, in around 5,500 businesses.
Key topics that were discussed at the breakfast included:
- Bringing motorcycling into the mainstream of transport policy.
- Streamlining licence training and testing.
- Recruitment issues and generating interest in the industry.
- Road safety, potholes and road maintenance.
Notably, amongst the attendees, was Fabian Hamilton MP, who hosted the Parliamentary Breakfast and opened proceedings. Speakers at the event included Craig Carey-Clinch, Executive Director of the NMC, Symon Cook, Head of NMDA. There were also positive speeches from Alfie Brierley, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Motor Cycle Industry Association and James Gibson, Executive Director at Road Safety GB. Fabian Hamilton MP was very pleased to host the event, and pointed to the wonderful traditions of motorcycling and the importance of the sector.
Symon Cook, Head of the NMDA, which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK said “NMDA’s Parliamentary breakfast was a great opportunity to reflect on 2024 as well as on the opportunities and challenges that lie in the year ahead. Collaboration will be key—between manufacturers, policymakers, and riders—to overcome challenges and unlock the industry’s full potential. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, we can ensure it not only survives but thrives.”
Craig Carey-Clinch, Executive Director of the NMC, said: “The briefing was an opportunity to bring the motorcycle sector together with parliamentarians to discuss what is needed for motorcycling from the Government. Discussions were positive and both the NMC and NMDA were able to set out a programme for positive action, launching their proposals to Ministers. We look forward to 2025 and the work ahead.”
Alfie Brierley, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the MCIA, also commented: “The motorcycling industry stands at a pivotal crossroads, with the opportunity to redefine its role in the UK’s future transport mix. We must move beyond nostalgia and outdated rhetoric and focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity to ensure our sector evolves and remains relevant for this government.
“With L-Category vehicles - spanning mopeds, motorcycles, and light 3 and 4-wheeled urban transport solutions - there’s immense potential to align with government goals for decarbonisation, urban efficiency, and mobility. But this requires bold action and a united approach, embracing all facets of our sector to build bridges to the future.
“Let’s not just protect what we have; let’s reimagine and shape a transport system that values the socio-economic and environmental benefits that our industry can provide, or else risk being defined by the past rather than leading the way to the future.”
www.uknmc.org