Highway Code changes designed to boost protection for cyclists have been branded “bonkers” in Parliament.

Conservative former minister Sir Desmond Swayne took exception to new advice for cyclists to ride in the centre of lanes on quieter roads, in slower-moving traffic, and when approaching junctions, to make themselves as visible as possible.

Sir Desmond, MP for New Forest West in Hampshire, told the House of Commons: “I cycle for 10 hours a week and on a narrow forest road I always cycle as close to the kerb because I’m a driver too and I want to accommodate drivers.

“The advice in the new code that I should cycle in the centre of the carriageway is bonkers, isn’t it?”

Transport minister Trudy Harrison replied: “I’d like to stress that that advice is only on narrow roads.

“And I’m delighted that he has embraced cycling because we too want to see half of journeys made in towns and cities walked and cycled by 2030.”

The Highway Code contains advice and rules for people on Britain’s roads.

Nine sections have been updated, with 50 rules added or amended.

The changes are advisory, so non-compliance will not result in a fine.

Other changes include guidance for traffic to give way when pedestrians are crossing or waiting to cross at junctions.