Tories would withdraw 'cash-guzzling' speed cameras
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Tories have promised to review the use of all speed cameras in England and Wales as they accused the Government of "waging a war on drivers".
If they come to power they plan to withdraw "cash-guzzling" cameras where the accident rates have not fallen.
Shadow Secretary of State for Transport Damian Green said the Conservatives' measures would be "on the side of the responsible driver".
The Tories claim that the Treasury received more than £15m from fines last year, with millions more going to 42 safety camera partnerships, which administer the cameras and fines.
The party plans to audit all 5,000 speed cameras to gauge the effectiveness of saving lives.
Its road transport proposals also include reducing the speed limit to 20mph near schools and hospitals, and an increase on some motorway stretches to 80mph.
Unclear speed limit signs will also be tackled, with the party arguing that motorists are often confused as to how fast they can go on certain roads.
More traffic police on patrol will tackle criminals in cars, rather than relying on cameras to identify "rogue drivers" who are driving without a licence, insurance or tax.
The Government has supported speed cameras, saying they save about 100 lives a year.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments