Cycling Along Political Lines
Is cycling a left-wing or right-wing activity?
Tory MP Ed Vaizey:
Some people like to pretend its a left-wing pastime because they conjure up these images of miners cycling to work.
But actually it’s both a Conservative and a right-wing pastime, if I can draw that distinction.
Remember John Major’s famous speech about ‘old maids cycling to church’? And I think that brings up the point about the heritage of cycling - it’s very much woven into the British character.
It’s a Conservative issue in terms of nostalgia, but it’s also a right-wing issue because its about the freedom of the individual. It’s about taking ones own action against an over-bearing stage.
Labour MP Gwyn Prosser, chairman of the Commons all-party cycling group:
I think it is more of a left-wing tradition - it’s more egalitarian. A bike is a bike…
Bikes have two wheels and they spell out equality and inclusiveness and egalitarianism.
Seriously? It’s a mode of transport!
[Though if it is political, it's a right-wing activity, as it is about individualism and equality of opportunity ;-)]
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Well, we cycle (and drive) on the left of the road, but I don’t think that has any direct political significance…
I cycled for years, going all over the London area and parts of north Surrey, and learning about any number of places via this convenient transport medium. as with walking, it meant I was more “out there” with the people and in the communities than I would be by going around in a metal (or plastic) box on (four) wheels.
Thus I would say that cycling is a good method for anyone who truly wants to represent people and be with them, of whatever party or of none.
Well, the bike has now been stolen.