Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns about local authorities implementing 20 mph speed limits without proper consideration of road conditions and public support.
What discussions has he had with local authorities on the implementation of 20 mph speed limits on roads? The MP notes that these limits can be effective in quiet, narrow residential side streets but criticises their imposition on wide main roads without adequate consultation or justification. She cites an example in Barnet Council where a large 20 mph zone is proposed for Whetstone without sufficient local support.
The right hon. Friend agrees that blanket 20 mph zones without local backing, such as those imposed by Labour across Wales and London, are detrimental to drivers and may undermine specific protections for vulnerable road users near schools. The government will issue stronger guidance on restricting these zones and is prepared to take further action against non-compliant councils.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not directly confirm intervention but discussed policy direction
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns about the imposition of blanket 20 mph speed limits without proper local consultation and support.
The MP highlights that while 20 mph zones can be effective in quiet, narrow residential streets with local consent, they are unjustified when applied to wide main roads. She raises a specific case in Barnet Council proposing a large 20 mph zone for Whetstone without adequate consultation.
The right hon. Friend agrees with Labour's approach in Wales and London, which has imposed blanket 20 mph zones without public support, damaging the effectiveness of such measures in areas where they are needed. The government will issue stronger guidance to restrict these policies and may consider further action against councils failing to comply.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm intervention but discussed policy direction
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns about the government's policy of “Plan for drivers” potentially undermining local authorities' ability to implement safety measures such as low-traffic neighbourhoods and 20 mph zones.
The MP acknowledges that local authorities can effectively deliver their own strategies like low-traffic neighbourhoods and 20 mph zones, but criticises the government's “Plan for drivers” for weaponising these policies. She asks if he will stop using them against local authorities and recognise all road users, not just those in vehicles.
The hon. Lady's question was written before she heard the answer; it is clear that 20 mph zones make sense near schools and other appropriate areas but not when imposed indiscriminately without regard to circumstances, as Labour has done in Wales.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the specific ask about stopping weaponisation of policies
Response accuracy