Cycle concern at lorry rule delay

The new rules could save hundreds of cyclists' lives across Europe

Lives could be lost if the government delays the introduction of new European safety rules for lorries, cycle safety campaigners have said.

The EU law requiring most HGVs to be fitted with "blind-spot" mirrors should be in force by the end of next March.

The London Cycling Campaign thinks ministers will miss the deadline because they have not yet agreed a timetable for implementing the law.

The Department for Transport said it would ensure vehicles comply on time.

The EU says the directive, which will apply to all lorries registered since 2000, will save up to 1,300 lives across Europe over the next 14 years.

The campaigners also want thousands of lorries, registered before 2000, to be included.

However, the DfT says many older vehicles cannot bear the weight of the new mirrors.