Tories would withdraw 'cash-guzzling' speed cameras

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.