RAC speeds to defence of safety cameras

Nigel Morris,Deputy Political Editor
Wednesday 24 November 2010 20:00 EST
Comments

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.

Speed cameras save 800 people a year from being killed or seriously injured on Britain's roads, ministers were warned yesterday, following their decision to scrap road safety grants to councils. Cash specifically intended for road cameras is being heavily cut and will end in 2011. Senior police officers have said they were disappointed by the language of Philip Hammond, the Transport Secretary, who has promised to "end the war on the motorist".

The RAC Foundation mounted a staunch defence of the network of cameras. In a report sent to every highway authority, it argued that scrapping cameras would be a "big mistake" as they have made roads safer.

Professor Richard Allsop of University College London pointed out that a large majority of the public consistently backed their use and dismissed claims that the money raised from cameras was used to swell council or police coffers.

Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, said: "The current crisis in funding for speed cameras – and road safety in general – leaves road users at real risk."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in