§ Mr. WareingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many ambulance drivers have been recorded as speeding by speed cameras while answering 999 calls in(a) 2001, (b) 2002 and (c) 2003; what the total cost has been to ambulance trusts; and if he will make a statement. [173021]
§ Ms Rosie Winterton[holding answer 17 May 2004]: The information requested is not collected centrally.
However, the Department is aware that speeding tickets issued to ambulances on emergency journeys are creating extra administration costs in some areas. Officials have already had useful discussions with the Home Office and are working closely with them to provide a solution.
§ Mr. WareingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received in respect of ambulance drivers recorded as speeding by speed cameras when answering 999 calls; and if he will make a statement. [173022]
§ Ms Rosie Winterton[holding answer 17 May 2004]: The Department is aware that speeding tickets issued to ambulances on emergency journeys are creating extra administration costs in some areas. Officials have already had useful discussions with the Home Office and are working closely with them to provide a solution.
The issue of speeding tickets has been raised with the Department in a Lord's starred question, in questions from hon. and right hon. Members and by the Ambulance Service Association.