§ Mr. Hicksasked the Secretary of State for Transport in what circumstances he is prepared to allow the imposition of speed limits and use of double white line systems on 'A' class roads where his Department's criteria are not met; and if he will list the procedures that have to be followed in such circumstances.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe decision to impose a speed limit, or to lay double white lines, on any road is one for the responsible highway authority. Criteria are issued for the guidance of local authorities both in determining whether and, if so, what local speed limits may be appropriate and in deciding whether double white lines should be laid. My right hon. Friend decides such matters for the trunk roads for which he is highway authority and in considering applications to impose speed limits on principal roads, which require his consent. Any proposed departure from either set of criteria would be for consideration in the individual circumstances.