§ 6. Mr. SternTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what measures are being taken to reduce vehicle speeds on British roads.
§ Mr. ChopeCurrent initiatives include new road hump regulations,.20 mph speed limit zones and speed limiters for heavy goods vehicles.
§ Mr. SternI congratulate my hon. Friend on that comprehensive reply. That list shows the commitment of my hon. Friend and his colleagues in the Department to the necessary reduction in speed limits. May I add to it the current proposals for increasing the likelihood of traffic light offenders being caught under the legislation? People who speed across traffic lights are a problem in major cities, such as Bristol, and anything that can be done to reduce it would be welcome.
§ Mr. ChopeI agree that there are a large number of traffic light offences which are a danger to road users. The new powers being taken in the Road Traffic Bill will enhance road safety significantly in that respect.
§ Mr. PikeWill the Minister consider the problem which arises when the third lane disappears because of motorway works but traffic hurtles along at 70 mph plus, makes no attempt to reduce speed and tries to force its way in at the last minute, causing tremendous danger to many other motorists?
§ Mr. ChopeI am sure that the hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. Too many motorists drive recklessly and dangerously.