MAG National Committee Meeting14th April 2007

Banovallum School, Horncastle

1 PresentJane Chisholm ChairmanDavid Short Campaigns ManagerIan Mutch PresidentFergus O’Connell Vice Chair and National Clubs Liaison OfficerJustine Travis National Finance OfficerSelina Lavender Regional Rep – East AngliaSheila McMahon Regional Rep – YorkshireStu Chivers Regional Rep – South EastTrevor Baird Director of Public AffairsGerard Livett (Uncle Sol) Director – Regional Rep – Greater LondonTony Cox Regional Rep – North westSteve Wykes Director – Regional Rep – ScotlandMurray Webb Regional Rep – EasternIan Cook Regional Rep – North EastFinbar Colson Regional Rep – SouthernBryan Chapman NC Liaison - WesternPaul Turner Regional Rep – CumbriaArchi Hipkins National Network Communications OfficerJohn Thomson DirectorEddie Lowe Regional Rep - West MidlandsRob Easthope Regional Rep – Thames Valley Andrew Davis Regional Rep - South Wales

Meeting commenced 9:00 Hrs

2 Apologies

Mike Baker (South West), Gary Olphert (Secretary Northern Ireland), Simon O' Connor (Essex and Herts)

3 Removal of any item not deemed by NC to be appropriate or related to Regional Reps

No items were identified for removal.

4 Minutes of last Meeting - matters of correctness

The Minutes of the last NC were reviewed and were accepted.

NC minutes – Proposed Sheila McMahon, Seconded Selina Lavender Vote unanimous

5. Matters arising

A report on Sheffield City Council research on attitudes and behaviours in accidents had been published and a copy had been obtained.

6. Appointments and Resignations

John Thomson was standing down as a director of MAG UK at the AGC on completion of his four year term. Jane thanked John for his contributions.

As agreed by the members of the NC, on the NC e-mail list, National Officers reports, Regional Reps Report, Public

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Affairs Director Political Report and the MAG Board report were submitted or were to be submitted by e-mail on the NC list, to enable special items of business to be adequately covered within the time available for the NC meeting. Reports received on e-mail detailed below:-

7. National Officer Reports – Chairman, Vice Chairman, Finance Director, Clubs Officer, National Network Communications Officer, National Research Officer.

Chairman’s Report

To be presented at the AGC.

Vice Chairman’s Report

To be presented at the AGC.

Finance Report

To be presented at the AGC.

National Clubs Liaison Officer’s Report

I seem to have been quite busy without actually going anywhere.

I attended the reps training weekend at Lineham Farm and got everyone ready for bayonet charges. I am afraid to report that our campaigns manager was much the worst for wear on the Friday night and woke us all up at the crack of dawn singing the national anthem in his union jack underwear. The weekend went very well and all whom attended came away enthused (or was that confused).

I also went up to the North East AGM at The Avalon Bar. I did try and give something of a speech but I was barracked constantly by the campaigns manager who once again was the worst for wear.

Joking aside I have had more enquiries over the last two months than any other period since I took the job on in August 2005. Our club numbers are up on last year, namely 130. I was hoping to report a couple of big signings but they have not materialised as yet, but rest assured they will.

There have been a couple of great examples of teamwork, or namely a club has contacted me, I couldn't make it and asked someone else to go.

The Deaf Bikers were in touch, Sol and Rob kindly went at very short notice. They should be affiliating very soon. This showed MAG a very good light as the BMF cancelled only 4 days before their AGM. Two of our nation committee attending was most impressive, thanks lads.

My little helper (kit) has been putting the new clubs pack together under my direction (bumbling rants) as well as the agenda for the AGC.

I am still writing a monthly bit for two scooter mags and a column for a Lincs based rally mag.

Have also put together the package for the clubs village at Farmyard (with Kit's and Pete Walkers help).

Still running the local group and badgering folk into joining/renewing.

All in all things are very positive. There are all sorts of other stuff I am sure.

"Never in the field of human transport has so many been represented by so few"

National Network Communication Officer’s Report

Not a lot of change over the last two months apart from a brand new shiny computer for network, no longer on steam, what a relief!

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Still the usual gripe – not much coming from the regions but last month two individuals sent stuff in which was great.

Still heavily involved with Whitley Bay Festival of Motorcycles which goes on apace.

The biggest cost in my time is trawling the plethora of sources for bike related items, then fining the stuff down to relevant now, impacting shortly and of impact or importance later.

This is now being fitted round a ‘Part time job’ which seems to be getting a little creep into it [I ain’t complaining, it is lovely to have something else to work at!]

Additionally I am still attending meetings for the Tyne & Wear Transport Steering Group, Gateshead Strategic Partnerships.

Campaigns Managers Report

My report on activity since the last NC meeting as follows.

On the 13th Feb, a couple of days after the last NC I went to the Parliamentary Advisory Council on Road Safety, (PACTS), for their annual conference in London. A fascinating meeting where motorcycles seemed to be completely missing from the debate until yours truly kept piping up to the extent that the chair Rob Gifford kept pulling up the speakers if they did not mention motorcycles in the presentations they were giving on road safety and transport strategies in general. The highlight for me was intercepting Peter Bottomley as he was leaving. Ensuring that before he left he had a one to one MAG 'input' and my business card thrust into his mitts before he peddled of on his push bike. A full report on this event was in last months Network.

The 16th - 18th Feb was taken up with the Activist training at Lineham Farm near Leeds. an excellent event and I was impressed with the enthusiasm and commitment by everyone to a real campaign scenario. Well done everyone, again full report in last months Network.

19th Feb I was off to the studios of Radio York to take part in a live debate on Radio 2's 'you and Yours on the issue of motorcycles in bus lanes. As usual they got someone with a totally opposite view, the Bike Doctor, as in push bike, from the Guardian. I think we won the day with plenty of people phoning in to support bikes in bus lanes.

27th Feb I went with the Jane Chisholm to CREO in Huddersfield to progress further the MAG marketing strategy to boost membership. A very positive meeting and some really good ideas which are being worked up. We have provided them with membership profiling based on age gender and geographic location of membership which will inform the next stage. This will be to provide us with a menu of prices on what options are available. Our next meeting is on the 16th April. I will report back on what options we have to consider.

1st March I was off to the glorious biking Mecca that is Matlock Bath for a meeting at the grandiose County Hall to discuss Derbyshire County's casualty reduction programme for 2007. As usual bikers and our disproportionate representation in the deaths and serious injury ratings were a prime focus. Through negotiation though I was able to shift them away from the usual clamp down on bikers approach and bring them round to the three Es philosophy of, Education - Bike Safe and other complementary initiatives, Engineering, securing a commitment to review all road side furniture, road repairs etc and Enforcement, emphasising the national enforcement policy which takes a pragmatic approach to things like small plates and dark visors. A very positive meeting and valuable line of communication set up between MAG and Derbyshire. Good on them. I wrote a letter congratulating them on their approach which sets the standard others should follow. We do need some on the ground MAG representation in Derbyshire. Any suggestions?

2nd March marked the day on which Graham Stringer's private members bill , the 'off road vehicles registration bill' passed its second reading to the surprise of everyone. This mad cap Bill has sparked off frenetic campaigning activity which I will report on later.

The same day I had a meeting with the chair of the North Yorkshire Police Authority. There are big changes taking place in the Force with the retirement of the Chief Constable and the subsequent appointment of a new Chief and also a new Deputy. I wanted to ensure that the pro motorcycling stance taken by North Yorkshire was not going to be lost on the appointments.

4th March saw the distribution of the March edition of the 'Bike' magazine and the article on MAG and my appointment. The e mails of support have flooded in I can count over 30, including BMF members who thought I was being very conservative about the BMF. There have only been 3 people who took exception to the article. I think the numbers and positive outcomes of the article speak for itself. You will be the judge.

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8th March and it was off to the Motorcycle Research Unit at Huddersfield University where I am a 'visiting research fellow' to touch base with head of faculty Mr Geoff Crowther. The University are keen to engage with MAG on research projects so it was useful to keep the lines of communication well oiled. We are also putting the final touches to the conference being held in the Isle of Man during the Centenary TT where I am giving presentations which will now include a strong MAG slant. A good opportunity to give a riders rights perspective to the great and good of motorcycling including the top brass of the sport and major manufacturers.11th March I went to the NEMAG AGM at Whitley Bay. A wonderful event and credit to Ian Cook for getting such a big turn out. My presentation on campaigns seemed to go down well, complemented by the impromptu double act with Ferg. Everyone was doubled up with laughter, I think laughing with us, not at us. But hey who cares, its good to see people having such fun. After all that’s what biking is all about in my book.

13th March and it was off to Malton for a meeting with Wayne Rooney East Yorks MAG to discuss a campaign strategy for the Humber Bridge toll waiving for bikers.

17th March saw me presiding in my capacity as president of the York Advanced Motorcyclists, an off shoot of the IAM, at their AGM. Again, never one to miss an opportunity, I promoted MAG vigorously and a number of members gave a commitment to join MAG including some who were BMF members who wanted to change allegiance. They are also going to discuss affiliated club membership at their next committee meeting, (which should be about now), they have 250 members.

21st and 22nd March I was down at Central office catching up with Trevor and the team. We also had a meeting with Ken German, famous in the world of motorcycle crime prevention and a representative from a company specialising in DNA marking of property. In my capacity as chair of the Motorcycle Crime Reduction Group and MAG rep on the group Ken thought it would be an opportunity to launch a joint initiative with MAG. The idea is to formulate a unique DNA 'string' for MAG members which would act as a deterrent to thieving scum bags to keep off our bikes but to also improve the chances of getting stuff that is nicked and recovered back to the rightful owner. I will put together a business case for the board/NC to consider. It would provide a real promotional opportunity for MAG.

26th March and I was off to Cannock on the Fazer 600, ( such a good little bike and does everything, amazing!), for the first meeting to combat the Off road registration bill. It was very much a starting point held at the HQ of the Amateur Motorcycle Association (AMCA) who are responsible for organising a lot of amateur sporting events. It was a meeting of minds and agreeing common ground for campaigning.

27th March. This time off to London in the comfort and convenience of GNER for the next meeting, this time with MCIA and the RAC foundation for the next steps of campaigning on the off road nonsense. The meeting was held in the very opulent RAC club in Pall Mall. I completely messed up on dress code, not realising that it was a very upmarket gentlemen’s club with a strict dress code. I turned up in open necked shirt, leather jacket, and corduroy jeans. I was pounced upon by a uniformed and top hatted concierge who asked if he could help me. I just brassed it out and said, yes my man I am a member and I am attending a meeting, get me Sheila Rainger, (meeting organiser), if you please. Fortunately I was wearing my Fedora at a jaunty angle which I am sure saved the day and proved to me once again that if you want to get ahead, get a hat! I didn’t mention that my RAC membership was the road side recovery scheme and not membership of the very exclusive RAC Club, phew!!

After the meeting the Brigadier his delightful partner Barbara and I met up with Mr President for a pleasant evening culminating in one of Brick Lanes splendid curry houses. After spending a peaceful night at Mutch towers Mr President and I went to meet Mr Adam Barker in Buckingham Gate to discuss a TV opportunity. Adam is a producer who makes documentaries for main stream TV stations. He is a biker and saw the article in the Bike magazine which got him thinking about doing a programme on riders rights and MAG. After a very positive discussion over a meal, (his expense) in the Bank restaurant he is going to gather some thoughts together then get back to us on the next stage of this exciting development. A result!

On 29th March I was back again at Central to finish off putting together the Campaigns database. My sincere thanks to Sarah Gardner for her skills at taking a computer Luddite, me, with ideas and putting them into a practical and useable format. Sarah I am very grateful. We now have a searchable database on which to collate the many campaigns which we are engaged in. There is still some work to do to make this accessible by all by the way of shared access but the main work is done.

30th March and I was back down to London for a meeting with the DVLA at the DfT offices discussing the issue of lost entitlements from driving licences. To be fair the staff from the DVLA were sympathetic. It is clearly a major issue and one which is not limited to lost motorcycle entitlements. Anyway armed with the information I have given them they are going to get back to me with some suggestions. Watch this space!!

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A rather busy week! As soon as I got back home Sue and I set off to the Lake district to enjoy a peaceful and exhilarating weekend sailing and chilling out. The sense of freedom and at one with the elements is so like motorcycling. Straight back at it on Monday the 2nd April and I went to Humberside Police HQ to meet Deputy Chief Constable David Griffin. David holds the ACPO portfolio for motorcycling and Bike Safe. He is a biker himself and thoroughly nice guy. Anyway in pursuit of the campaign for road policing and a fair deal for bikers David has agreed to write a personal letter to those Forces , ( only 9 out of the 43) who don’t operate Bike Safe to 'encourage' them to take part. I also found out that Bike Safe is now an inspection area that all forces are marked on. This means that if they do not operate Bike Safe they will be marked down. In this day of performance league tables this is a real result and will give us ammunition if we have any issues with the way bikers are dealt with in any Force area. David was also keen to engage with MAG on a number of issues and set up a direct line of communication. A result for this campaign. David is also on our side regarding the off road bill and ACPO are doing some active behind the scenes lobbying of MP's and ministers.

4th April, Back to the RAC club in Pall Mall for the next meeting of the off road bill strategy group to set out key actions for individual members to take on. This time I was booted and suited and my entry did not even raise an eyebrow from the stern looking top hatted concierge. Shame really and I did think he would rather swap his top hat for a Fedora! Naturally, apart from galvanising MAG activity through the Campaigns website I have taken on the roll of briefing ACPO, the Association of Police Authorities, (APA), and some key politicians.

Blow me, who do I bump into on Kings Cross platform on the way back to Yorkshire .None other than the chair of the North Yorks Police Authority who had just been to one of their national meetings. We sat next to each other on the way back during which time she was not only been fully briefed on the off road bill malarkey but I had also secured an invitation to go and address Manchester Police authority at the National conference in June. Manchester police authority are the ones who supported Graham Stringers Bill. I think they need to know the ramifications of their misguided deliberations! Another result.

5th April, As a result of some phone calls late Wednesday afternoon to friendly MPs I had the opportunity to meet 3 on Thursday to give them a one to one briefing about the off road bill and other issues. an opportunity not to be missed though I am sorry to have had to give back word to Eddie and miss the Brum meeting I was going to. Eddie was understanding that the opportunity to brief the MPs should not be missed . Next month Eddie!

In all a very productive couple of months. we are starting to see more MAG coverage in MCN and the mainstream bike press. Steve Farrell from MCN is phoning every week on some issue or other and reporting in a positive way. John Westlake, editor of bike magazine, is considering giving some publicity for MAG events including the MotoGP camping. There will always be some negativity and the press will publish these. That’s healthy though and we are much more in credit than deficit.

The transport select committee has reported on its scrutiny of the Governments Transport Strategy. There are some wins, bus lanes, better training for car drivers and acknowledgement of the good work being done in the area of off road riding provision. There are of course the negatives and the notion of work being carried out to review power outputs, pollution and speed limiters on bikes are real campaign material. I take a positive view on this. The words in the report are that a debate should be entered into to discuss 'sensible' options. If this is the case then it provides MAG with the opportunity to debunk once and for all the myths peddled by the anti bike brigade whose evidence to the committee was based on outdated and biased research.

In between meetings and debating I have been fine tuning the MAG plan which is now in the hands of Jane Chisholm and hopefully we can sign this off at the board meeting prior to the AGC. I have also put together a business plan for the Motorcycle Crime Reduction Group which has been well received and will ensure the group really does tackle the things we are meant to, reduce theft of and from motorbikes. The future is bright, the future is MAG!!

8. Regional Reps Reports

Scotland

Work on the Regional Transport Strategies has continued over the past couple of months with submissions to Tactrans Regional Transport Partnership, the last of the seven partnership to consult on their strategies. With a fairly upbeat workshop in Dundee where the people drawing up the strategy allowed stakeholders to make their case and explain what would allow us to help meet shared targets. Needless to say key objectives for us as far as the strategy was concerned was secure parking and access to bus lanes and HOV's if introduced. It was explained that these measures would demonstrate inclusion of PTW's and highlight their benefits to those currently sitting in car created congestion. Promoting increased use. Space saving, reduced emissions and Social exclusion reduction was also pointed out as tangible benefits and at the summary session the chair ensured that PTW's continued to be included whenever modal shift and behaviour

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change was brought up. I will need to check the final strategy to see how much has been included but the signs are encouraging.

Talking of reviews I have managed to review the Shetland and Nestrans final strategies and both now include sections dealing with motorcycles. The sections could be more inclusive with regards to measures and benefits, but both are steps in the right direction. Work is continuing on reviewing the other seven strategies, but comparing draft copies with the final version takes ages and is an excellent cure for insomnia.

Other activities during the period were manning the MAG stand at the Scottish Bike show, thanks to Neil and Julie for bringing the stand up and the other volunteers who helped make it a successful weekend with 62 memberships taken and plenty of interest shown. By way of comparison I understand that the BMF took six memberships at the show!

Following the show I placed an order for copies of some of the posters used on the stand and we have now received these and created display stands for use on the MAG Scotland stall. Which will be out and about at a few events this summer.

Preparations for both Aberdeen and Edinburgh rallies is taking place and despite some last minute hitches with license applications for Aberdeen both are going ahead as planned.

The Edinburgh Transport Forum provided an opportunity to quiz party leaders on motorcycling and other Transport related issues at a hustings event hosted by ETF. Some interesting responses and a marked reluctance from the main parties to embrace the populace in the decision making process via referenda, needless to say this was not terribly well received by the majority in attendance. I seems politicians still haven't realised that to involve the electorate and rekindle interest requires more than a tick in a box every four years.

Attended a hastily organised Bikesafe meeting with the Chief Super responsible for overseeing the scheme in Scotland, all eight forces are now back on board and the scheme is seen as beneficial, thought some means of evaluating its beneficial effect would strengthen the case for continued and better resourced involvement.

Was also involved in the MAG Scotland egg run 10 to 12,000 bikes this year £26k raised for Yorkhill Childrens Foundation on the day plus a reasonable amount of positive press for bikes. A big thank you to Stuart, Norrie and Tina for their continued efforts in making this so successful and other volunteers who helped out on the day. Also managed to sign up a handful of members on the stall and generate some interest about MAG.

Greater London

Negotiations are on-going on the Westminster Parking front. We are making several strategic alliances. There will be no change in the principle that we will be charged, but I am working to get the best possible deal for bikers.

I have been consulting with various other local authorities - including Merton with their draft network management plan.

I am considering awarding Islington Council a special 'heart in the right place' award. They have been rolling out secure motorcycle parking at various locations throughout the borough. Unfortunately some of these are on speed humps - thereby making the parking bays useless and also being a waste of council tax-payers (i.e. MY) money!

Our Fred Hill run was very well attended this year - although most of the praise for that must go to Stu and Fin from South-East and South respectively. Next year it will be better organised and I will try and coach a couple of marshals.

Various e-mails with a former Bromley and Biggin Hill rep have led to the gearing up for the re-launch of Biggin Hill MAG - giving me much-needed coverage in the south of my region. Unfortunately the details in the forthcoming issue of The ROAD are wrong. Due to various difficulties the meeting venue has changed, and the day will probably change as well. To quote the late Hugh Scanlon, 'Here we are, both feet planted firmly in the air!'

As mentioned in Ferg's report myself and Rob attended the Deaf Bikers AGM. This was most interesting and I leaned a lot about the deaf community. I also went to see the Eana MCC. They had already joined, but I was there to answer questions.

I am sure there is more, but that is all I can remember.

North West

11th Feb: - Fred Hill Run, Blackburn Cathedral.Another successful NW Fred Hill Run. This event goes from strength to strength. Weather was fine for a change, and we got a good turn out. Also got good coverage this year in the local papers, largely due to two of the Red Rose MAG

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members, Martin & Chris, having there son Forrest christened after the event back at the groups meeting place, the Charles Napier Public House, Blackburn.

11th Feb: - Local reps meeting, Charles Napier, Blackburn

We have decided to alternate the location of this meeting to different local groups meeting venues, and this month, it was the turn of Red Rose MAG. It also made sense to have the meeting after the Fred Hill Run. Main point of discussion at this meeting was to purchase our own MAG Stall for use within the NW at various events. Everybody at the meeting agreed to go ahead and buy the unit.

One other notable point of the meeting was raised by Mike Card, who had noticed that the motorcycle bays in two Crewe car parks, which had been provided by the local council, have now been taken over by a number of ornamental plant holders. When questioned, a council spokesman said that they had not been used sufficiently to justify their existence. Take heed, use it or lose it !!

15th February: - Rally Committee Meeting Admiral Gardens, Blackpool

Concerns raised over building work at the site may affect the rally. Already concluded that the bonfire will have to cancelled this year, but will have a large wood burner instead. Apart from that, the site field is looking better than ever, and tickets are already selling fast for the event 22-24th June.

16th February: - Interview for Scrapheap Challenge Lime Street Station, Liverpool.

Went down with the other members of the “Mad MAG’ers” for this interview with the shows producer. Everything seemed to go well. They had narrowed it down from eighty teams to a shortlist of twenty, from which they needed to pick twelve. A few days later I found out that we had been successful, but Channel 4 said that we had to change our name, as they did not want MAG in it.

21st February: - Meeting with Bishop Michael, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Blackpool.

The meeting was set up to introduce the Bishop to MAG members Wendy & Tony, who will be getting married on the weekend of the Blackpool MAG Rally, and have requested that Bishop Michael perform the ceremony at the rally site on the Saturday afternoon.

27th February: - RSBS Meeting, Lancashire Police HQ, Hutton.

Not able to make this meeting as was away testing at Millbrook Proving Ground. Bill Green, local rep for Red Rose MAG stood in for me. Since the RSBS initiative has been going, MAG has had a 100% presence at these meetings, which has been appreciated by the Police and other members of the partnership. We do from time to time get quoted as a safety organisation, which isn’t strictly true, but I let it pass as we are concerned with road safety?

31st March: - Jester’s Rock Night (MAG Affiliated club), Whittingham

As this is my club, I was involved in the running of this event, and the clear up the next day, as camping was available. A good night was had by all, plenty of different clubs in attendance, with plenty of MAG literature for them to pick up. Most clubs around here are now affiliated to MAG.

1st April: - Wirral Egg Run/Blackpool Egg Run.

Both egg runs well attended and marshalled by NW MAG members. I was not able to attend either as still clearing up and recovering from the night before.

3rd April: - Filming intro video for Scrapheap Challenge

Over six hours filming to produce a clip probably lasting five minutes. Managed to get plenty in about MAG, what we are about etc. Hope it doesn’t end up on the cutting room floor. Start filming the first round on 15th May, with the series being shown Jan 08. Look out for “The Dark Riders”, (naff name, but Ch4 decided on it, and in the end, we had no real say)

3rd April (Evening) RideSafe BackSafe Meeting

Mad rush after filming to get to this meeting. Main topic was the planned event on Sunday 15th April at Fairhaven Lake, Lytham-St-Annes. It is being marketed as “RideSafe Rendezvous” and if it goes well, it will be an annual occasion at this location. Will also be a good opportunity to try out the new NW MAG stall. Blackpool MAG members will be setting the stall up, and I hope to make it back for the start of the event, after a drunken night at the AGC (hic!).

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Other items on the agenda was Steve Edwards from Kill Spills detailing his meeting with the DfT. Topics being discussed are a national web-based database for approved clothing, and reduced VAT on the same. Bit nervous that this may be going down the road of compulsory approved clothing?

On a plus there has been a marked decrease in motorcycle KSI figures in the region during the 18 months that the RideSafe BackSafe initiative has been running in the region, which is very encouraging.

6th April: - East Leeds Lions Rally.

Good excuse to visit this event (not like I needed an excuse) as they are one of MAG’s newest affiliated clubs thanks to the sterling work of our National Clubs Officer (just checking if your reading Ferg!). Excellent rally, great weather, well recommended.

Eastern

I am sure I have done some stuff this last two months but I will be blowed if I know what it is... Am trying to get the last minute bits done for the AGC so my report will be brief....

Attended affiliated club Halfway heroes 70's night as a very stylish hippy, showing the MAG face etc..

Went skiing for a long weekend, nothing to do with MAG but it was fun....

Helped our newest rep and her newest rep with a few pointers over their draft branch constitution & re-jigged the borders with east Anglia.

Had a weekend full of site visits and meetings for the AGC.

Attended RADMAG AGM, no new rep but very positive AGM and the treasurer has agreed to stay as a point of contact, their bike show will also be going ahead later this year, also attended their egg run.

The rest of the time has been spent doing bits and bobs for AGC. I know its short and not very fulfilling but hey ho

North East

16th-18th Feb: Training weekend at Lineham Farm. Probably enough has been said about this by other punters, but I have to say it was well-organised and run, informative and educational and great fun! I will remember the look on Mr Mutch’s face, when Philly offered to dump on his desk, for a long time…

19th Feb: Regional Meeting. Feedback was requested on the MAG Plan, but nothing was forthcoming. I believe everyone trusts us to get on with it. I also believe there are fairies at the bottom of my garden… Good feedback from the training weekend passed on to Yorkshire MAG & Central. We have confirmed stand space at Ridewell (Cleveland Police, 8th July) and Bikewise (Durham Police, 29th July) and I have booked a MAG stall for both these events. Cleveland police have confirmed their support for RTW day again, following a successful run last year. The NEMAG Website has finally been revamped by Michelle and Greg. Michelle suggested a MAG webmasters’ training weekend, I need to make enquiries. Durham MAG have inexplicably moved their meeting venue from a cosy pub with good beer at £1.23 a pint to Nevilles Cross Social Club…

21st Feb: Events committee meeting. The Late New Year’s Party raised £420.19 – well done guys! We have a lot of good stuff underway, including the second Skivers’ rally, now re-located to Hartlepool Rugby Club and plans for a new “Jocks & Geordies” rally at Clennell Hall, nr Alwinton. We’ll be struggling for marshals, so a bit of a campaign has been launched and a NEMAG database of willing victims volunteers has been set up.

22nd Feb, 8th Mar, 22nd Mar, 4th April: WBFoM Committee meetings.Moving along nicely – we have booked a spectacular stunt show, the Extreme Globe Riders from Spain (www.extremeglobe.com), who are touring the UK later this year. We hope to get this sponsored so that cost to us will be little or nothing.

25th Feb: BaT-MAG AGM. This new group voted to change their name to “Geordie MAG”, but despite being re-named twice in 4 months, they’re growing nicely and getting involved in the Whitley Bay Festival.

28th Feb, 7th Mar and 11th April: Darlington MAG.Due to work commitments, Chris Wooff has had to relinquish Rep’s position. Tina Hind volunteered to take over, with her dad, Richard, as secretary. Tina’s keen, but will need support to make a go of this. I’m a bit worried for the future of the

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group.

11th March: NEMAG AGM. We had a good meeting and a great turnout, including the Yorkshire contingent of David, Sheila & Fergus. Sadly, Jane had to cry off at the last minute due to a bad back. Most officers were returned unopposed, but we elected a new Treasurer (Paul Roberts) and Dealer Liaison Rep (Philly Nicholas). We have a new post of Press/Publicity officer, filled by Allie McCormick – I hope this will lead to some good press and profile-raising. We also initiated a Youth WP which, if it gets off the ground, will be focused on recruiting and involving younger riders into NEMAG. Fergus gave us an impromptu speech on Clubs and David made an interesting presentation on campaigns, which prompted good discussion. The rest of the day passed in a fug of Guinness in the company of Mr & Ms Fergus and in the morning we wandered down the sea-front to survey the WBFoM site. A good day altogether!

13th March: Event Management Conference. The “Northern Cultural Skills Partnership” hosted a free conference, so I went along to see what I could find. Mostly it was a load of luvvies organising basket-weaving festivals and suchlike, but I picked up a few contacts and tips that may be useful. A good day out nonetheless, at Durham County Cricket Club and the scran was nice…

25th Mar CBA/Weared MAG. Philly has been upset at the demise of Wear Valley MAG, so he decided to re-start a last-Sunday-of-the-month meeting under the auspices of his brainchild “Can’t Be Arsed” (see www.cantbearsed.org) and a kind of NEMAG “surgery” that members can come along to with questions, problems, issues or just a natter and a catch-up. A good excuse for a run-out to a pub, so I’m supporting it ;-).

Southern

Since the last report the region has attended London’s Fred Hill run. Very well supported by Southern.

Basingstoke has had there AGM with a very positive full agenda, little Red remains their able rep.no real change with the officers, except wolfie takes over the products side in keeping with the Region role he has just recently taken on.

Basingstoke also had an Easter Egg run, with a party afterwards. This was followed on Sunday April 1st by Salisbury’s Spring bike Show. This was well attended helped by the weather with over 600 bikes and up to 1000 people.

Southampton’s bike show is on the 22nd of April Geoffrey and Rose will be busy pushing this event helped by all a lot of Southampton’s members.

On the political front, Geoff (Southampton’s Rep) has recently attended a local council meeting to protest against charges being levied against bikes on the Itchen Toll bridge. Little red (Basingstoke) has been tirelessly Emailing different on line petitions, specifically the "House of Commons" site and others, regarding road charging, speed camera’s etc.

David (Salisbury rep) has been partitioning the local council regarding motorcycle parking, gaining secure parking facilities in the town square. All in all a very successfully two months.

South East

11/2 Organised a ride in from Medway to the Ace Cafe for the Fred Hill Run. Also attended by East Surrey MAG from the Region.

These sort of ride ins are important, they give us a higher profile away from the main event as well as the main event itself.

Also non members attend & join up, works every time for me.

12/2 South East Region Committee Meeting.

12/3 Medway MAG Meeting.

15/3 Attended the pre Biggin Hill MAG Meeting.

19/3 Medway MAG Meeting.

26/3 Medway MAG Meeting.

1/4 MAG stand at the Wind & Fire Custom Show, Folkestone.

Lots of people approached claimed they were already MAG members so I managed to sell them a few badges, only 1 joined on the day but our presence was necessary so those already members know we are still working hard in the area.

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10/4 Attended Kent County Council Road Safety Meeting, our first proper meeting with KCC.

All relevant KCC departments, agencies & partners were present, including Highways, Education, Road Safety, Camera Partnership, Police, Fire Service, etc.

Meeting ran from 0900 - 1800.

At the beginning a couple of main policy makers believed that the Speed issue & Cameras were the most effective means of road safety.

Interestingly everyone else believed road user behaviour & education were, to the extent that after a day of arguing for Speed limits & Cameras these people suggested that the emphasis may have changed recently.

Motorcyclists were the only road user group directly represented, & these solely by MAG. All the others had been invited but hadn't turned up.

This was mentioned at the beginning of the meeting & it was made clear to everyone that we had been invited because KCC recognise MAG as being a legitimate & serious organisation with relevant views.

Throughout the day I was approached by most of those present who would like to liaise with MAG in the future on a variety of issues, including Highway Engineering & their Accident Investigation section, Police, not sure what on yet, & the Fire Service, who are now taking over Road Safety Education from the Police.

Guess I must have done something right.

MAG are now becoming recognised by KCC as the main Riders organisation & to be consulted whenever motorcyclists are affected. Still a few more departments to go to finalise this.

Other Stuff Some clubs have affiliated in the area & MAG's profile is steadily growing amongst what I call the BMF types, can't imagine why!

It is important that these people aren't put off by other members traditional view of them or their image.

I'm not suggesting anyone changes but certain MAG meetings & events could put some middle class moderates off for good, something to be aware of.

One such group I am mixing with The BMW Owners Club, who were anti MAG, on average, are now beginning to change their views.

As a member I may be able to get an article in their club Mag on MAG where as an organisation we may have trouble. To be discussed with Fergus.

Also I may be able to do a MAG presentation at the local meeting, regularly attended by 40-60. Just need a bit more time to get accepted as I'm not their usual type.

Next target the Scooter groups, again working with Fergus. Beachy Head MAG Still meet but very difficult to get them to communicate, will address this at the next Region Meeting. East Surrey MAG Chris has steady meetings of 2 but still manages to get out & support events using his email contacts.

He is also liaising with Surrey County Council over their Motorcycle Strategy.

As Regional Membership Sec he has chased up expired members with interesting results, to follow.

Folkestone MAG Very low turnouts & a change in personal circumstances are causing the Rep to loose interest.

I am wondering whether he is now doing more harm than good with cancelled meetings, un advertised changes of venue &

NC Minutes 14th April 2007 Page 10

lack of activity. Medway MAG While I haven't been around Medway MAG have kept our relationship with the Powwow going, ran 2 Rock Nights, attended several functions in Kent & had several runs including supporting the stand at Folkestone, Fred Hill Run & Biggin Hill Meeting.

They have also managed to sign up more new members although meetings are still quieter than usual.

Yorkshire

I feel as though I am getting the hang of things now. It has been another busy two months as you will see from the diary dates.

DIARY

10/2/07 Straight after a busy NC meeting I was transported back to Leeds by David in his slick little sports car, boot full of copies of The Road. To rest my head before the Fred Hill led by Leeds MAG on 11/2/07. The run was reviewed by girly Dave (Claire) The piece appears in The Road.

13/2/07 Leeds AGM, with myself as observer (which is strange as it is the group that I have been involved in for years). A good AGM with a packed room at The Albion. Group roles this year were Local Rep, Treasurer and Secretary. Dave Nash stepped down as Leeds Rep this year and received a vote of thanks from the group for his hard work and commitment. The new local rep Dave Glanville was voted in as Leeds Rep, welcome to him from the Region!

17/2/07 Paid a visit to a bike project ‘Off the Streets’ held at BUMPYS motorcycle training every other Saturday. The project is Leeds City Council funded (although due to run out this year) and brings young kids (lowest age 6) together to ride off road safely and securely at this venue. They are in need of a volunteer mechanic and I will be writing to the local bike shops to ask for help as well as the Regional members. In the evening myself and Andy supported the Reps and Activist training at Lineham Farm and was entertained by the ‘Fergus and Mutch’ floorshow (you had to be there, but then many of you know what I mean).

23/2/07 Attended a charity blues night at the Irish Centre in Leeds. Organised by two member of the East Leeds Lions (newly affiliated club). On the bill were The Raindogs and Steve Gibbons and his band. Both gave fantastic performances and the place was full of MAG and MCC folks having a gooood time. I really went for it!

25/2/07 Yorkshire Regional meeting with Steve Travis (Vice Rep) in the Chair. Very good attendance from the Reps and plenty of support for each other throughout the meeting. The meeting worked quickly through the agenda as the MAP meeting was to follow at 1pm. Some of the activities included letter to affiliated clubs, Yorkshire AGM host requests (which Wakefield MAG have subsequently won), Regional awards were finalised and donations to MAG Central were agreed. The meeting were encouraged to attend the Humber Bridge BikeSafe Launch on 22nd April, rather than attending a regional meeting. If anyone is in the region it should be a good event, I know that David Short has it in his diary to attend.

10/3/07 Attended the NE AGM. Following two great nights with Andy at The Avalon, Whitely Bay and a visit to Bamborough Castle I attended the North East MAG AGM as NC observer. Previous report posted on NC listing.

20/3/07 Visit to Leeds MAG 21/3/07 Visit to Scarborough MAG22/3/07 Visit to Halifax MAG (Three Pigs Ale)

28/3/07 Took part in the Leeds MAG Easter Egg Run. Well attended with over 35 bikes and stacks of eggs. The children at the Farm were so excited to see the bikes we had to wait while they calmed down and washed up from their tea. After choosing an egg each they were taken outside to see the bikes and sit on a few too. Dave Glanville, Leeds MAG Rep presented Lineham Farm with a cheque for £500 from the Yorkshire Region. This donation is in lieu for the Farm allowing MAG to use the facilities for the Reps Training.

29/3/07 Visit Halifax MAG for social evening and Three Pigs ale.

30/3/07 Brief visit to Leeds MAG Mad March Hare Party (up early next day!)

6/4/07 Visit to Gemober Rally run by two Leeds Clubs Team Sober and GEMcc. Many of GEMcc are MAG members and Team Sober have been affiliated before and should be re-affiliating soon.

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7/4/07 Visit to East Leeds Lions Rally at Eccup. Saw two local Reps Martin Young (York and Scarborough) and J-P (Doncaster). Both supporting our newest affiliated club!

OTHER BUSINESSYorkshire Landmarks Run. After a huge amount of consultation the run will now go ahead as follows: Take a day out and follow the Yorkshire MAG Landmarks Run 2007 Visit the 10 landmarks between 11/8/07 and 16/9/07 and send an £8 postal order or cheque to the YRR, PO Box xxx and one photo from your run, we will send you the exclusive Landmarks Run T-shirt. The cities and landmarks have not all been agreed as yet but hopefully by the end of May we will be able to advertise the run properly.

Yorkshire AGM:Following a request to groups for a proposal to run the AGM with a deadline of 31/3/07, Wakefield MAG have now been offered this opportunity with full support from the Regional Committee.

Website:The Yorkshire website is nearly ready to re-launch. Big thanks go to Claire Shaw who has worked with me to reorganise the site and I have been writing short pieces of the pages.

Yorkshire MAG Stand:The Stand has arrived and is top quality for the money spent. There are at least two or three bookings per month already, so we will get our money’s worth I am sure.

Humber Bridge BikeSafe Launch 22/4/07: No regional meeting on this date. Instead to region are encouraged to attend this event. David Short has it in his diary and most reps seem keen for a ride out so it should be attended well. I will run an email meeting instead that week.

Yorkshire Pudding Traders: Andy and I are responsible for these and it is going well. Many of the previous years traders have come on board already, thanks to Andy for taking the lion’s share of this job. Following the latest meeting I have agreed to be marshals admin for this event as Andy is handling the traders sooo well.

Trophies for the Yorkshire AGM: After an agreement from the region I have found some lovely trophies and the categories will be Regional Rep Award, Events Champion, Membership Champion and Campaign Champion. A suggestion has been made that other groups take this structure on and that people go forward to the national level, what does the NC think of this idea please???

East Anglia

17/18th February, MAG Training Weekend - I attended the training weekend near Leeds aimed at those in the north but my mothers from Yorkshire so they let me in. I travelled up on Saturday morning due to work commitments, which meant I missed Friday nights drinking session. A weekend well spent I thought and on the way home I visited Squires for the first (but hopefully not the last) time.

23rd February, East Anglia Reps meeting – I called a meeting of the local reps (then only 2), where we discussed what the local reps expected from me and also what I proposed to do as regional rep. We also discussed the draft business plan and the AGC. Everyone seems happy at this point and we scheduled meetings for every other month although I stressed I’m always available to reps & members.

27th February, Neighbourhood Policing Meeting, Manea – I attended this meeting mainly to meet the local constabulary, and just as David told us on the training weekend ‘the police were pleased that someone was offering help’. I couldn’t offer anything relevant to the evenings discussion but the local police now have my contact details and know there is a local MAG presence or ‘positive biking influence’.

1st March, Norfolk County Council PTW (Powered Two Wheeler) Forum, Norwich - Both Local Reps and myself attended Norfolk County Council PTW (Powered Two Wheeler) Forum, Brain Storming Meeting, hosted by the Casualty Reduction Section. Those present included riders rights organisations (MAG & BMF), dealers, training schools and the police. The meeting opened with Iain Temperton of the Casualty Reduction Section telling us that PTW accident rates are on the rise in Norfolk and unless the council do something to reduce the rates, it is likely that the government will step in and tell them what should be done. Encouragingly we were also informed that there is funding available to tackle the issue. I receive regular emails updating me. The Think Bike signs are back out (Norfolk CC take them down in the winter, they feel this has more impact), and

"As previously discussed, we have 2 major targets:

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'Ducati Man' - (I will come up with a better description soon) - we will be looking to create a 'Norfolk Biker' website. This will NOT be badged as a County Council product but will be hosted externally, so we will have the scope to make it funky and interactive. From that website will be springing various events - initial ideas have included a ride out event to an informal seminar on subjects such as group riding or pillion etiquette. Also, it would be somewhere for this forum to 'live'…we would ask you to contribute items of interest and link to your own sites. Generally, it would not look like an official website at all, but more of a 'community' page. Any suggestions gratefully received…….

Scooters / 125's - basically this group covers those on L-plates..we have a number of ways forward here..

We are intending to open discussions with DSA / Trading Standards to see if we can investigate standards of delivery of CBT / DA.

Buying in to the 'Twist & Go For It' website.

A scheme based in educational establishments that will 'licence' vehicles to park……once the rider has had a training / educational input from us.

Training of community wardens / Police Community Support Officers / PC's, so they can give advice and guidance to riders 'on the street'.

A buddy system - hosted and co-ordinated by us, using experienced riders to mentor new riders on a 1-2-1 basis.

So the work starts now….we are still planning to recruit a specific officer for PTW's, but that won't be for a couple of months at least. In the meantime, Peter and I will be making a start."

Taken directly from Iain Temperton’s email.

10th March – Party - Attended a member’s retirement party – much merriment & ‘dancing’ into the earlier hours.

15th March - Suffolk County Council Bikers Forum, Ipswich – Bury St Edmunds Local Rep, myself and our partners attended this meeting hosted by Suffolk CC. The meeting involved a presentation of the Suffolk Ride website www.suffolkride.net which is designed to be interactive and has some nice features such as a weather report link! The main topic of discussion was a pilot scheme, which will be trialled on the 22nd April. Taken from a successful, multi-agency scheme run in Cambridgeshire, the plan is to flag down riders on a known ‘Sunday biking route’ and give advise and a bike inspection. It involves the police, advanced riders group & dealers. Riders who are stopped will also receive a voucher for a tea & bacon roll. In addition a talk was given by SERV (an organ and blood running service) who hope to expand their service into Cambridgeshire, Norfolk & Suffolk.

2nd April North Cambs MAG 1st night - I have worked with Jim Gardner over the last month to get a new group up and running in March (North Cambridgeshire). I am very happy to announce that the opening night went well with nearly 40 people attending (including members of the local MC). Jim has also signed up a single and a joint membership. I’ve asked Jim to write something up for the next issue of The Road.

4th April, Bury St Edmunds MAG Annual General Meeting, Bury St Edmunds – I attended the AGM as the observer, all went well, all officers were voted back in and a full report will follow.

Most of my time in the last two months seems to have been spent getting the Regional Website updated but now the leg works done I’m hoping Ginny & myself will be able to keep it in good shape with the minimum amount of effort (fingers crossed). We still have a bit of polishing to do to finish it off.I found time to attend several of West Norfolk MAG & Bury & District MAG local group meetings.I’ve dropped off old copies of The Road at: –

my dentist

my doctor's

my hairdresser's (along with an extra copy as her husband is a BMF member)

the local library (who are more than happy to put it on the shelf)

as well as taking on the Mutch approach and handing it out to other people on two wheels at petrol stations.

Unfortunately I didn’t find time to attend Bury St Edmunds MAG Easter Egg Run on the 1 st of April (I was working) but my partner Pete went & I’ve spoke to BSE MAG and they were very happy with the event.

Another busy two months in the fens!

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9. Public Affairs Director Political Report

Overview

Yet again another busy two months from attending and delivering a speech at the West Midlands Fred Hill Run, Reps Training at Lyneham Farm near Leeds, a couple of meetings in London regarding the National Motorcycle Council (NMC), meetings in the MAG Office with the Campaigns Manager, finalised the new affiliated clubs pack with Fergus and to Brussels for a FEMA Executive meeting.

However, more and more it’s sitting in front of a computer typing to the outside world regarding MAG, answering queries, promoting MAG to those that ask, those that are listening and pushing those that we want to listen.

As my job title says “Director” I seem to have been doing a lot of directing, pointing the finger in the right direction, assisting and liaising.

Working in the background delivering the “mechanics” of our campaigns and information on our websites and email information lists. With a certain dissemination of MAG information held on the MAG server, to assist in present campaigns/issues, a bit like a librarian.

I am also working to get the best benefits for MAG members and to attract new members under the core of our main “business” - Riders’ Rights.

Think Bike Publicity

As part of MAGs involvement in the National Motorcycle Council (NMC) and delivery of the National Motorcycle Strategy I met DfT representatives with the purpose of disseminating their latest campaigns.

Urban commuter campaign “Invincible – Invisible” - report and poster sample in this issue of “The Road”.

Think Motorcycle Academy which promotes additional training and riding awareness to riders through a link with the British Super Bike (BSB) rounds http://www.themotorcycleacademy.co.uk

This will be done through the MAG and MAG Sport website www.magsport.com

There was the opportunity to link in MAG Sports Alex Gault. Alex was to race in the GSXR European Cup which has rounds at the BSB however after being accepted by Suzuki due to the apparent intransigence of the ACU over licence age Alex will not compete in the cup.

3rd Driving Licence Directive Pushed Through

Finishing off this saga I wrote a piece for Motorcycle Monthly on the implications of the directive for UK riders.

Crash Barriers

Those that signed our epetition on the Downing Street website will have received a reply.

I will be responding to the Government especially their statement on Wire Rope Barriers.

However work is continuing in Europe with FEMA granted a liaison status with the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) Technical Committee (TC) 226 "Road equipment" as representative of motorcycle riders.

FEMA will now work on convincing CEN members and the European Commission to define guardrails which will, at last, take motorcyclists into account either by modifying the current EN1317 standard or by creating a brand new European standard, such as the Spanish one, for devices to be added to existing guardrails.

FEMA was successful, through our lobbying and MAG Netherlands submission through one of their MEPs at last years debate during a TRAN committee meeting in the European Parliament to have an amendment accepted regarding crash barriers.

“Calls on the Commission to explicitly include the safety of motorcyclists in infrastructure guidelines, especially regarding motorcycle friendly crash barriers on European roads.”

DRL (Day Time Running Lights)

NC Minutes 14th April 2007 Page 14

Article in Aprils Network on DRL which covers the issue as it pans out in Europe.

From the Head of the European Commission’s Road Safety Unit, Dr Stefan Tostmann, announcement at a recent meeting with FEMA (Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations) representatives that the Commission would call for a 6 month deferral in the United Nations legislative process.

To the position and interests defended by EC (European Commission) representatives at the UNECE (United Nations World Forum for Harmonisation of Vehicle (WP29) radically deferring from what was initially announced to FEMA.

During an explosive discussion between GRE chairman -very pro-DRL- and FEMA General Secretary, Aline Delhaye, Mr. Schneider stepped in to support the chairman’s views, underlying that possible side-effects on motorcyclists were unavoidable. In other words, both representatives seemed to find normal that the positive impact of DRL on car drivers’ safety could mean more risks for motorcyclists!

Full Article at http://www.network.mag-uk.org/april07p16.html

MAG Benefits

As mentioned above working on MAG benefits which have a direct link to motorcycling.

This is updating current benefits and looking at “offers” that arrive daily at the office.

No to conservatories, yes to initial contact with motorcycle clothing suppliers, accessories etc.

However not a good start, as our link to Coverwell Travel Insurance has been dissolved due to their losing FSA regulation. Heath Lambert are still covering this option.

As the MAG website is being developed there needs to be a clear link to this and “The Road” and I will develop this with Ian Mutch over the coming two months. Tying in advertorial, advertising and benefits for MAG members including discount accommodation – MAG Touring.

The Corporate member pack have been reviewed mainly by Gerard Livett and this needs finalised before final copy by the end of April.

PLI – Public Liability Insurance

Met our insurance providers during April with a successful outcome, there should be a more detailed report from the Board meeting.

However our premium and for Affiliated Clubs, at this stage will stay the same as last year.

MAG stands purchased by regions will be covered.

PLI for runs/demos does cover the run between the start and finish points, details to be confirmed.

Insurance providers to provide a “layman’s” guide to the cover offered.

FEMA

From my last report and the FEMA meeting in February I had voiced concerns at the involvement in a raft of motorcycle research and safety projects.

The main concerns where that FEMAs involvement would have been passive, passive in the sense that FEMA although a part of the projects would not have been able to take an active role nor have the technical expertise.

For example a project on External Vehicle Speed Control (EVSC) Intelligent Speed Adaption (ISA) could have recommended that these systems were a viable option to take control away from the rider and not just an advisory function. Therefore FEMAs name as representatives of riders’ rights in Europe would have been attached to a report recommending EVSC – ISA.

MAG UKs overall view was that we needed more information on the projects before a decision could be taken by FEMA to participate.

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Since Februarys meeting the world has moved on. With MAGs National Research Officer, Elaine Hardy stepping down from the position she has been snapped up by FEMA as a Research Consultant.

FEMAs General Secretary has worked with Elaine in a very short space of time, other motorcycle experts, technical research institutes to form what I call “FEMAs Research Department”.

To lead on the issues, make sure motorcycling is represented, that the move towards safety devices even if advisory do not interfere with riders’ safety or overload riders with onboard information thus distracting from the skills required to simply ride a bike.

Legislative Update: from FEMA Campaigns Manager Virginie Peters

Directive on blind spots mirrors

“Road safety: retrofitting of mirrors to existing fleet of heavy goods vehicles”

FEMA welcomes the initiative of the Commission aimed at improving the safety of all road users and specifically the most vulnerable ones. It also underlines the need to promote awareness campaign focusing on motorcyclists.

Purpose: to improve the field of indirect vision of existing heavy good vehicles and to reduce the number of accidents by retrofitting mirrors to heavy goods vehicles registered in the Community. It is aimed, in particular, at vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, who are particularly prone to accident with heavy good vehicles given that lorries have a lateral blind spot on the passenger’s side

Amendments to the draft report:

The retrofitting exercise should be accompanied by appropriate measure designed to raise awareness of the dangers linked to the existence of blind spot of heavy goods vehicles, including awareness campaigns for vulnerable users, such as cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians as well as for the correct adjustment and use of indirect vision devices.

A number of accidents are caused by drivers of heavy goods vehicles who are not aware that other road users are very close or beside their vehicle (…) It is estimated that every year about 400 people are killed in such circumstances, most of them being vulnerable road users such as cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Directive on Infrastructure :

“Road safety: road infrastructure safety management”

FEMA took part to the consultation concluded on 15 May 2006. FEMA very much welcomes the proposal for a Directive on Infrastructure Safety Management given that the relevant services have been receptive to FEMA observations and point. The Directive proposal clearly states that vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists and motorised two wheelers) are elements to be taken into account.

Purpose: to improve the management of road infrastructure and ensure that safety is integrated into all phases of planning, design and the operation of the road infrastructure spanning the Trans-European Network (TEN-T). Along with economic and environmental considerations, safety will play a vital component to the preparation of new infrastructure. The proposed Directive will ensure that managers are given the correct guidelines, training and information needed to guarantee safety on the road network..

Mid-term review of the White Paper on transport :

Keep Europe moving: sustainable mobility for our continent

FEMA finds it unacceptable that the White Paper Mid-Term Review on EU Transport Policy does not take motorcycles into account.

The deadline for proposing amendments was 1st March 2007. Positive contact had been established with MEP Ayala Senders in order to propose an amendment mentioning motorcycles. MEP Dieter-Lebrecht Koch has suggested an amendment mentioning motorcycles.

Directive on designs protection:

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“Industrial Property: legal protection of designs”

FEMA welcomes the EU Directive proposal seeking to change the current system of the legal protection of design. The proposal, if enacted, would directly contribute to lowering the price of motorcycle spare parts

Purpose amending EU Directive on the legal protection of designs in order to create an internal market for spare parts. The European Commission is presenting this proposal in a bid to harmonise and complete the internal market for spare parts by adopting the liberalisation route for opening up the market.

Green Paper on Urban Transport: Consultation

MAG is preparing input to the consultation which will be public on the 30 April 2007

Cross Border Enforcement:

“Respecting the Rules – Better Road Safety Enforcement in the European Union”

In order to assess the possibility for further action on EU level, the Commission published a consultation paper on the subject of cross-border enforcement.

FEMA will closely follow this dossier and the possible development of a Directive proposal. Note that motorcyclists have been negatively pinpointed by ACEA European Automobile Manufacturers Association in their response to the consultation.

Report Conclusion

These are the main tasks that have taken up the majority of my time.

Trevor Baird Director Of Public Affairs (MAG UK)

Tel: +44 (0)870 444 8 448 Fax: +44 (0)870 444 8 449

Email public-affairs@mag-uk.org

www.mag-uk.org www.network.mag-uk.org www.magsport.com

10 Conference Motions and procedure

The NC agreed that motions 1 and 2 should be opposed for the reasons previously minuted. Motion 3 was generally acceptable, but safeguards were required to stop abuse. Motion 4 Sol was tasked with proposing a friendly amendment to task the NC with writing to the law commission to look at compensation culture with a view to mitigating its affect. Ian Cook to lead the NCs opposition to motion 5. Motion 6 Murray to lead on this motion.

Some concern over who needed to be elected as national officers had been voiced, though the constitution prohibited revisiting this issue for three years. We need to be clear as to which positions are and are not elected posts and make the necessary corrections to the constitution next year.

Lunch to be scheduled for 1.15 with breaks at 11.45 and 3.30

11 Board Report

February Report back

Coverwell are no longer FSA accredited therefore remaining with Heath Lambert.

Review of Corporate and pack is ongoing, Sol/Jane and Pete Walker to expedite.

April Report back

Moto GP David Short/Pete Walker talking to the community.

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VMCC - Need to focus on their concerns flyers etc. Ian Cook to liaise with Neil Stevenson/Trevor Baird

CREO - Proposal to re-brand image and website cost £15k but is expected to recoup costs through increased membership. We need to focus on youth and those new to biking and this helps give us the tools to achieve this. Sol was happy to trust David and Jane’s judgement. Ian Cook wanted to let CREO do what they do best and pay them for it. It was suggested that one cycle of feedback should be sought to fine tune the changes. To ensure the MAG identity is accurately defined and we get what we want and take the membership and regions with us. If right we can use it to recruit and generate increased membership. Trevor indicated that no matter what changes were implemented it was important that the website remain under our control on our server. Justine indicated that the BMF makeover of their website had been wasted expense, since it had been OK prior to the changes, but she was happy to see investment in our site, which looked dated and had suffered from a lack of investment in recent years. Jane and David were meeting with CREO on Monday to help fine tune the requirements. Pending the outcome of the meeting the NC voted by 13 votes to none to go with the proposed changes.

MAG Plan - Jane looking at feedback to create glossies and internal documentation, processes and procedures.

PLI - Trevor wanted regions to advise central of stands to be added to the policy. Affiliated clubs to be advised of the terms and cover provided by our Public Liability. Currently clubs get annual certificate of cover, we want appropriate risk assessments carried out for each event. One possible way of obtaining this is to get a letter with a risk assessment for the event as a pre requisite for switching on cover. Insurance providers to provide a “layman’s” guide to the cover offered.

NC adjourned for AGC.

NC Continued

12 Vice Chair

Fergus O'Connell was re-elected as vice chair unanimously.

MAG Foundation

There was a worry about activity and acquisition of money for the future. As well as current levels of money available. The Foundation AGM is due tomorrow and the annual report needs to be completed. JC requested positive suggestions to help this, TB believes MAG UK need to express concerns with the Foundation, they are the lease holder for MAG Central. Some reassurance was needed to help guarantee MAG UK's position at Central office. Currently the trustees were not active enough in seeking funding and projects. It was agreed that additional trustees were needed to generate the necessary impetus and ideas. A recovery plan is also needed to safeguard the future and provide reassurance that the foundation is on track and assuage fears of its demise. Though legally separate from MAG UK should it fold this would be embarrassing for MAG and further thought could be given to diverting appropriate work and projects from MAG UK, possibly with funds attached. Financially the collapse of the foundation would cost MAG UK £2k per year, while from the point of view of staffing the loss of Sarah who is part funded by the foundation would remove her ability to cover for Ian and Janet in the office and would necessitate costly temporary cover during periods of high activity.

In the absence of any MAG Foundation trustees being present, it was agreed to hold an emergency NC meeting to discuss the MAG Foundation's problems further and try to take appropriate actions to safeguard its future. Date to be advised.

Meeting closed 17.45

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