First Transport-Policy rant

I wondered, when Bob set up this blog for me, what sort of things I would write about on it. Cycling, obviously. The wonders of the English and Scottish countryside. Getting lost. The weather. Regional cuisine. Brain tumours and healthcare funding policy. Charming folk encountered en route...

But I admit from the beginning I knew the day would come when I wanted to let off steam about transport policy in Britain. Riding a bike can turn one into a bit of an eco-warrior. Disputes over road space with 4x4s, breathing in diesel fumes shortly after breakfast on the way to work, they chip away at one's natural tolerance for other people's transport choices, and occasionally lead one to think it's all the Government's fault. How about this one?

My brother Drew is bravely accompanying me by bike most of the way from Petersfield to Warrington, perhaps 220 miles over three days. I asked him last night whether he had had any luck in identifying a fast, economical and comfortable train journey back to Brighton, where he lives, from Warrington. No, he said. The journey would have to be made on a Sunday. It would have taken nine hours and cost £90 by train. His cheaper, faster and more comfortable option? Taxi from Warrington to Manchester, British Airways flight to Gatwick, pickup in van and drive back to Brighton. Three hours and £88. All that including the bike. I applaud British Airways, especially for taking the bike. But how, in all honesty, can a rational person keep their greenhouse-gas emissions low when those are the options? Answers please on a recycled postcard to Sir Nicholas Stern, HM Treasury (ex).