National Speed Policy (Hansard, 9 June 1999)

§ Mr. Peter Bradley
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) if he will make a statement on the Government's national speed policy review; [86053]
(2) when the national speed policy review is to be concluded; when the Government plan to announce the findings of the national speed policy review; and when the Government plan to announce their proposals for changes to speed limits. [86055]

§ Ms Glenda Jackson
The speed policy review was launched in October 1998. This is considering how best policy can reflect the aims of the integrated transport policy white paper, whilst continuing to meet our road safety objectives. In its first stage the review is examining existing research and reviewing current practice and legislation. The second stage is now underway involving people and organisations outside government that can offer an informed opinion. The final stage will draw conclusions before a report is prepared for Ministers.
The review will consider all aspects of speed management, including the role of speed limits. It is expected to be completed by the Autumn, when its findings will be published.

§ Mr. Peter Bradley
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many and what proportion of settlements of less than 3,000 in population have (i) no signed speed restrictions and (ii) a maximum speed limit of(a) 40 mph, (b) 30 mph and (c) 20 mph. [86114]

§ Ms Glenda Jackson
This information is not held centrally as Local Traffic Authorities are responsible for setting speed limits on their roads.
320W

§ Mr. Peter Bradley
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many respondents to the consultation document, "Developing an Integrated Transport Policy: An Invitation to Contribute", recommended lower speed limits. [86054]

§ Ms Glenda Jackson
Of the 7,300 responses to the consultation document, "Developing an Integrated Transport Policy: An Invitation to Contribute", 827 recommended increased traffic calming measures and lower speed limits.

§ Mr. Peter Bradley
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations the Government have received in the course of the national speed policy review on the need to reduce speed limits in country lanes and in villages. [86056]

§ Ms Glenda Jackson
A wide range of views on this issue have been received, both for and against the need to reduce such speed limits.