HC Deb 21 March 1974 vol 870 cc150-1W
Mr. Bradley

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will now take steps to abolish the 50 mph speed limit on motorways.

Mr. Mulley

Yes. Regulations under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1967 have been laid before Parliament today to restore the speed limits which were in force on motorways before the introduction of the temporary 50 mph limit last December. The new limits will come into operation on 29th March. Other regulations raising the speed limit for heavy goods vehicles from 50 mph to 60 mph have also been made. These are subject to approval by resolution of each House of Parliament and it is hoped that they will also come into operation on 29th March.

As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy has made clear, there is still need for economy in the use of petrol. For this reason it is not yet possible to abolish the 50 mph limit on roads other than motorways. That further relaxation will depend on the response of motorists to the appeal for continued economy.