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COLIBI - Comité de Liaison des Fabricants Européens de Bicyclettes - is the representative body for the European bicycle industry. Its members are the national bicycle associations in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. The Bicycle Association of GB is not a member.

On 1st December, the Finnish company which produces tough, all-weather tyres for cars, trucks and bikes, announced the sale of the bicycle tyre division had passed all regulatory hurdles.

Humourist and Guardian-columnist Guy Browning urges the widespread and daily use of cycle helmets. But not just for cyclists. Stats and studies show that helmet use should be encouraged for all manner of daily routines. Driving? Wear a cycle helmet. Having a bath? Wear a cycle helmet.

In a press release announcing this winter's gritting programme and a hi-tech approach to where black-ice may develop, the Highways Agency mentions this to be of benefit to motorists only. What, so cyclists don't also use Britain's road network in the winter months?

The Chinese Economic News Service reports that Taiwan-based bicycle firms in mainland China are planning to restart their production lines in Taiwan to diversify their operating risks, as China's advantage of low operating costs is gradually being wiped out. PLUS: is Vietnam going to get a 6-month 'stay of execution' on dumping duties...