A London council issued an apology following backlash from residents over a report suggesting that e-bikes could assist women in maintaining their appearance and fulfilling traditional household duties. The Liberal Democrat-led Kingston Council faced criticism for the language used in an equality impact assessment regarding electric bike rental contracts. The report indicated that e-bikes could enhance women’s access to cycling and physical activity by facilitating the completion of traditional domestic tasks.
The report’s assertion that e-bikes could help women look ‘nice’ while cycling stirred up a significant negative response from a resident who condemned the council for what they termed a “sexist horror.” Additionally, the statement in the council’s report highlighted the role of e-bikes in combating sexism within cycling, promoting inclusivity in bike retail and repair spaces, challenging gender bias in bike design and marketing, and boosting women’s confidence on the road.
Local residents expressed their discontent on social media platforms, with one individual labeling the council’s approach as a “sexist horror.” Subsequently, Kingston Council issued an apology for the offensive wording in the initial report, acknowledging the mistake and any resulting offense caused. The council emphasized its dedication to fairness, inclusivity, and the protection of women’s rights.
In the updated version of the report, the language has been modified to emphasize the potential of e-bikes in encouraging active travel among women and the broader population. The report now highlights how e-bikes can facilitate tasks like carrying goods or shopping, as well as enabling complex trip planning that individuals with caregiving responsibilities often encounter. The Mirror reached out to Kingston Council for further comments.
