"Dear minister,
I was delighted to read in the Standard yesterday that you are a strong supporter of London cycling. You are keen to encourage separation between cyclists and motorists. As a London cycle commuter, so am I - cars, buses and lorries are lethal machines in the wrong hands. However, the usual suggestions - cycle lanes and all the rest - are very divisive, very unpopular with both cyclists and drivers, and terrible value for money.
However, there are a couple of measures you could implement easily and very cheaply which would achieve what you and I both want.
The first is to enforce a minimum overtaking distance between cyclists and other traffic. They have imposed this in France, and it really works. It makes cyclists feel much safer and reduces the incidence of accidents.
The second is to reverse Mr Johnson's decision to cancel the Western extension of the London Congestion Charge. This would raise money for government at a time of great need, and would significantly reduce the volume of motorised traffic on London's streets, thus achieving much more space for cycling.
There's one other measure I'd encourage you to consider - reducing the maximum speed limit in towns from 30mph to 20mph. This would increase the capacity of the roads significantly, reduce pollution and make cycling even more attractive than it already is.
Your senior colleagues in government understand that cycling is already the best way to get around London. I'd urge you to talk to them and understand why. And do try it yourself - with the right training it's very approachable."
It needs a spit and a polish, and I've no time to do that or send it to him, but if anyone fancies stealing it, feel free.
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