Cyclists who kill pedestrians by dangerous cycling could face life imprisonment in England and Wales under changes to the Crime and Policing Bill.
The amendments tabled on Thursday will bring the offence of death by dangerous cycling in line with motoring laws, the Department for Transport says.
Under current legislation, dangerous or reckless cycling can usually only be punished by a maximum two-year jail term.
The change, led by Heidi Alexander, the Transport Secretary, will close a legal loophole that meant cyclists who hit and killed or seriously injured a pedestrian were charged under legislation from the 1860s.
The amendments revive a plan originally proposed by the Conservatives that was derailed due to the 2024 general election.
Campaigners have welcomed the legislation. Speaking to The Telegraph, Matt Briggs, whose wife was killed by a cyclist in London, said: “After losing Kim in 2016, I began campaigning the following year to have these laws enacted.
“The use of the wanton and furious charge for so many cases has been inadequate and archaic.
“I’m absolutely delighted that this Labour government has followed through with our calls for new legislation.
“This isn’t just a victory for me and my family, it’s also a victory for all the families who have worked tirelessly through their unbearable tragedies to have these laws changed.”
Others have criticised the decision. Chris Boardman, former Olympic cyclist and National Active Transport Commissioner, said tougher laws could deter people from cycling.
Duncan Dollimore, head of campaigns at Cycling UK, says: “Any road collision resulting in death or serious injury is a tragedy, and it’s essential that such incidents are taken seriously. Where cycle laws need to be updated, we support a proportionate and evidence-based approach that brings clarity to the responsibility that each road user has. In reality, these new offences would apply to only a tiny fraction of people who cycle and in exceptionally rare circumstances, as just 0.6 per cent of pedestrian fatalities involve a collision with a bike.
“However, it’s crucial that any legislative changes do not discourage people from cycling, particularly at a time when promoting active and sustainable travel is vital for our health, environment, and economy.”
The new legislation also comes after Labour promised more funding for cycling in the UK as part of plans to improve health and inequality, alongside meeting net zero targets.
