HC Deb 16 May 1973 vol 856 cc1502-3
25. Mr. Madel

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is satisfied with the current criteria for determining 30 mph speed limits in villages; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Speed

Yes, Sir. However, they are being kept under review, and, as my hon. Friend knows, I am always prepared to look into particular cases.

Mr. Madel

Does my hon. Friend agree that when it is not possible to build a bypass round a village, and when traffic in that village is heavy and continuous, it makes sense to impose a 30 mph speed limit? Will he alter the criteria for determining this limit, so that a number of villages in my constituency may qualify—which is what the majority of people living there want?

Mr. Speed

In the first place it is for the local authority to make an order for limits on principal roads. My right hon. and learned Friend has to give his consent. Studies have shown, however, that realistic speed limits reduce speed and accidents, and unrealistic ones are largely ignored and therefore devalue the whole exercise.