Speed cameras vital in saving lives

6.00.58pm GMT Thu 15th Dec 2005

Commenting on the independent research published by the Government today into safety cameras, Liberal Democrat Shadow Transport Secretary, Tom Brake MP said:

"The results of this research come as no surprise, speed cameras save lives.

"This means the current Government moratorium on the installation of new cameras, which has now lasted nearly five months, may have cost lives. Research suggests that if these cameras had been given the go-ahead an additional 75 deaths or serious injuries could have been avoided.

"Speed cameras have a proven track record in reducing road casualties. Ministers should not be pandering to boy racer instincts."

Research released today by the Liberal Democrats reveals that there are almost five hundred new safety camera sites proposed for England and Wales which have been 'on hold' for almost five months, with the delay on installation of these 489 cameras potentially leading to, with every month further delay, an additional 15 people killed or seriously injured.

Calculation of lives saved from cameras based on results from The National Safety Camera Programme - an independent report evaluating the first three years of the safety camera scheme. Published: 15 June 2004.