Written Question · S4W-26106 · Session 4
Further to the answer to question S4W-25932 by Derek Mackay on 11 June 2015, what its position is on the comments at section 7.3.6 of the T…
The question
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S4W-25932 by Derek Mackay on 11 June 2015, what its position is on the comments at section 7.3.6 of the Transport Research Laboratory publication, HGV speed limit increase evaluation: final report, which suggest that all of the data required to fully assess the potential safety risk from raising the speed limit for HGVs was not available, and, in light of this, whether it will carry out its own risk analysis on a road by road basis.
The answer
The Scottish Government notes that research commissioned by the Department for Transport concludes there are significant challenges in assessing the likely implications of a rise in HGV speed limits. What is clear is that the department forecasts the increase in HGV speed limits south of the border will lead to an increase in deaths and serious injuries.
With this in mind, the Scottish Government feels it is more appropriate to understand the outcomes of the trial currently underway on the A9, where the rise has been implemented in conjunction with an average speed camera system, than engage in further research which may be equally limited by the practical challenges of assessing such a change. We will also ensure that evidence emerging from the change in England and Wales is taken into account in future considerations of HGV speed limits.
With this in mind, the Scottish Government feels it is more appropriate to understand the outcomes of the trial currently underway on the A9, where the rise has been implemented in conjunction with an average speed camera system, than engage in further research which may be equally limited by the practical challenges of assessing such a change. We will also ensure that evidence emerging from the change in England and Wales is taken into account in future considerations of HGV speed limits.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S4W-26106 by reference.