HC Deb 05 March 1999 vol 326 c963W
Mr. Casale

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to improve enforcement mechanisms for 20 mile per hour speed limits on residential roads in London. [73821]

Ms Glenda Jackson

[holding answer 2 March 1999]: Enforcement of speed limits is ultimately a matter for the police. However, the consent of the Secretary of State must be obtained before the making of a 20 mph speed limit, and such consent is given only if it is likely the limit will be self-enforcing, normally by a system of traffic calming. The requirement to obtain consent will shortly be removed, subject to Parliamentary approval, but the advice to ensure the self enforcing nature of 20 mph speed limits will remain.