"UK minister backs call for more traffic police to protect cyclists"

"In an unexpected development at a meeting today of the Parliamentary
Transport Select Committee’s inquiry on road safety Britain’s
Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick MP backed calls for more traffic
police on the streets to protect cyclists and pedestrians. Up until
now the official line has been non-commital on the need for extra
traffic officers while at the same time stressing the deterrent value
of traffic calming measures and speed cameras. ..."

More at http://www.bikeradar.com/news/articl...cyclists-16610.
It's not on Hansard yet.

Personally I think this is great news. While undoubtedly there are a
significant number of law-breaking cyclists, I think the large
majority (at least in the places I cycle) are more sinned against than
sinning. Getting the message out that drivers who offend against
cyclists are more likely to be caught can only improve safety on the
roads for everyone.

Ideally I don't think it should be specific traffic officers for
cyclists/peds. All traffic officers should have training on issues
related to non-motorised road users. But it's a start.

Rob