MPs call for review of British Transport Police policy on bike thefts at stations
Concerns are being raised over reports some cycle thefts may not be investigated.
A group of Liberal Democrat MPs have written to the Chief Constable of the British Transport Police to express concern about reports that some bike thefts at stations may not be investigated.
Olly Glover, the newly appointed Liberal Democrat Transport Spokesperson and MP for Didcot and Wantage, joined colleagues Luke Taylor, Max Wilkinson, Susan Murray and David Chadwick in calling for clarity on the police force’s approach to cycle theft.
According to reports, the British Transport Police may decline to investigate thefts of bicycles if the bike has been left at a station for more than two hours or if its value is under £200.
The MPs say these policies could mean thousands of commuters have little recourse if their cycles are stolen, putting sustainable travel efforts at risk.
Their letter also highlights the role cycling plays in reducing pollution, easing congestion and promoting public health. They are seeking reassurance from the police chief about station safety and have requested a meeting to discuss these issues in more detail.
MP Olly Glover said the police’s approach ‘sends the wrong message to both victims and criminals’, and that cyclists should be able to leave bikes at stations without fear.
Glover said, “The British Transport Police’s approach sends the wrong message to both victims and criminals. Cyclists should feel comfortable leaving their bikes at stations without the fear of them being stolen, especially when they’re doing the right thing by choosing to travel more sustainably. Similarly, thieves must be deterred from stealing property.
“As well as stolen bikes being expensive to replace, the inconvenience caused for people who rely on their bike to get to work, or school, needs to be taken much more seriously.
“Police resources are clearly stretched, but the British Transport Police must urgently reconsider this approach, and work with train operators and local authorities to improve station security so that people feel safe and encouraged to travel by bike”.
The MPs are awaiting a response from the British Transport Police Chief Constable.