The BMF’s response to the DVLA:

The BMF sees no benefit for its members or motorcyclists in general in a requirement for motorcycles to be fitted with a front number plate.

The BMF considers that the neither UK Government any of its Agencies has a mandate to even consider such a requirement. If, as many believe, this Country is a democracy then the BMF believes that the views of users should be paramount.

It is the BMF’s opinion that the majority of motorcyclists would not support the introduction of front number plates and therefore introduction should not be considered.

In the BMF’s opinion this issue is being driven forward by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO’s) current affectation with Safety Cameras and Automatic Number Plate Recognition Systems (ANPR).

The BMF is aware of the implications of both Operation Spectrum and Project Laser, however we await a considered view from ACPO on the actual benefits, in safety and security terms, for our members.

Issues surrounding the use of ANPR systems and erosion of civil liberties are of great concern to BMF members. Many disapprove of the ‘nothing to hide, nothing to fear’ position adopted by Government being interpreted as ‘if you value your privacy you must have a guilty secret’.

The BMF considers that it is up to the DfT and DVLA to put forward a research based case for the introduction of front numberplates on motorcycles. The ” seems like a good idea ” principal is simple not good enough. Should this issue go to a Consultation procedure the BMF will seek an assurance that the opinion of the majority of Consultees will be reflected in the outcome, and that DfT and DVLA adopt a neutral position on the issue.

Technical Aspects

Apart from the aesthetics of design, there are a considerable number of technical issues in regard to the fitting of front numberplates to motorcycles and scooters.

The fitting of front numberplates will require the amendment of Construction and Use Regulations and EU Type Approval requirements.

The fitting of front numberplates may be another step on the road to the globalisation of motorcycle design and standards of construction. This may not be in the medium to long term interest of UK motorcyclists.

Will the fitting of front number plates be retrospective? If so this may well set a precedent and open the flood gates for even more biker unfriendly legislation.

If, as the BMF contend, this issue is being driven by ACPO would it not be simpler to re-orientate cameras when frontal identification is a problem?

If better policing is put forward as an excuse for the introduction of motorcycle front number plates would it not be simpler and better to increase the number of road traffic policing officers? Electronic systems are after all incapable of catching bad drivers or for example drivers under the influence of drink or drugs.

Would it not be better to endorse and fund initiatives that address the primary causes of motorcycle crashes e.g. training, road engineering, face to face enforcement?

The BMF thanks the DVLA for the opportunity to respond on this issue at an early stage. We look forward to further dialogue on the subject.

Yours sincerely,

Richard Olliffe

British Motorcyclists Federation

Assistant Government Relations Executive

Conwyn House,

14-16 Briton Street

Leicester.

LE1 0AA

www.bmf.co.uk