MP blasts Prime Minister for thinking he knows better than local communities over 20mph speed limits

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron has lambasted reports that the Government are going to make it harder for councils to introduce 20mph speed limits.

Last month, Westmorland and Furness Council announced that they would make it easier for communities to request 20mph zones in their local villages and residential estates.

Introducing 20mph limits in the correct places can improve safety, reduce congestion, reduce vehicle pollution and noise, and improve the environment for walking and cycling.

Research by the UK Transport Research Laboratory has shown that that you are seven times more likely to survive if you are hit by a car driving at 20mph, than if you are hit at 30mph.

Tim said: "When I'm out and about knocking on doors, speeding through our towns and villages is a massive concern which is raised with me constantly.

"That's why the new Westmorland and Furness Council are making it easier to introduce 20mph limits for villages and residential estates that want them.

"If the Conservative Prime Minister really think he knows what's better for our communities than the residents who actually live here then he is completely out of touch."