The Social Cycle (image intensive)

Cycling can be a rather solitary activity.

Being self-propelled means a cyclist can go their own way, sharing an occasional knowing look with fellow pedallers. You could always go cycling with friends, in a club ride, or even take part in "Silly Commuter Racing".

Sadly the law does not take kindly to cyclists having a chat during a ride.

The UK Highway Code (rule 66) states:

You should ... never ride more than two abreast, and ride in single file on narrow or busy roads and when riding round bends

This is not a legal requirement, however riding 3 abreast could count against you in court (for example for determining liability following a collision). However, in Nebraska, USA, cyclists must ride single file.

People in cars have it easy. The metal box cuts out (some) street noise, and with space for 4 or so others, you can conduct a conversation in (relative) comfort.

And of course roads are designed with cars 3 abreast in mind. Just imagine how many cyclists you could fit across a 3 lane motorway.

TfL still don't "get it"

Update: TfL also sent a (different) email to drivers.
Update 2: TfL actually sent 3 different emails, confusing.

TfL has just sent the following "Travel information reminder" email:

Dear XXXXX, I am writing to both cyclists and drivers to remind them to take care on London’s roads. Cyclists are reminded to: Be aware of blind spots all around large vehicles. It’s often safer to hang back Make eye contact with drivers to make sure they have seen you Not ride through red traffic lights. It’s dangerous and you can be fined £30 Allow space between you and parked vehicles. Doors may be opened suddenly Cycle training courses are available in most London boroughs. For more information, please visit tfl.gov.uk/cyclesafety

Yours sincerely,

Ben Plowden Director, Surface Planning

This is missing the point. Cyclists can do all these things, be "very road aware", but it is not enough to keep them safe. 
It is not solely up to cyclists, or just cyclists and drivers, TfL have responsibility as well. For providing inadequate and dangerous provision for cyclists and pedestrians.

The above email also advises "drivers ... to take care on London's roads," but all the emphasis is on cyclists' responsibilities.

TfL could easily add:

Drivers are reminded to:

• Give cyclists adequate room.
• Look before opening their doors.
• Not violate Advanced Stop Zones.

But instead they chose to focus on everything that cyclists do wrong. Perpetuating myths such as "all cyclists jump red lights," and creating more anti-cyclist sentiment rather than aiming for safer roads for everyone.

Edit: More info discussing TfL's responsibilities, and its failure to meet them.

Libertarians in Islington

Islington, home to the "Chattering Classes" and (possible) bans on chuggers. Is being dragged into 2012 by a new kind of political force. One Ron Paul supporter is going all out:

Do you know what this car is?
It might struggle with rural British roads (rambling round the shire).

Not that it will make any difference. Paul is, especially from a British perspective, a nutter, and the moderate, if mundane, Mitt Romney is being hailed as the victor only a couple of into the Republican Primaries.