On the appointment of the new transport secretary, British Cycling campaigns manager Martin Key said:

“British Cycling welcomes the appointment of the new secretary of state for transport, Chris Grayling MP, and calls for immediate action to meet the government’s existing commitments.

“There is a very real risk that the government’s modest target to double the number of journeys cycled by 2020 will be missed. The latest transport statistics show there has been no significant increase in cycling journeys over the last year.

“A first step would be to publish the Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy and begin the actions needed to meet the target

“In the post-referendum environment it is clear that the country must invest in sustainable transport infrastructure to attract inward investment, be more competitive on the global stage and tackle pollution in our communities. Our #ChooseCycling Network of businesses, who between them employ half a million people, tell us they want to invest in areas where cycling is prioritised.

“Investment in cycling in London has shown that dedicated infrastructure works and all the components now exist for a transport minister to help to solve some major societal problems by truly revolutionising the way we get around. We, and no doubt millions of people who cycle or would like to cycle, will be urging Mr Grayling to take this opportunity”