Federation response to the proposed privatisation of speed camera enforcement

12 August 2010

In response to the proposed privatisation of speed camera enforcement, Alan Jones, Roads Policing Lead, Police Federation of England and Wales says;

“Speed cameras have been successful in many ways, and I believe have positively contributed to a reduction in injury collisions - UK road fatalities have been reducing year on year for some time. 

“The average time distance cameras particularly receive widespread public support, with a high degree of compliance, and relative little need for enforcement action.

“We have justifiable concerns when we hear that some local authorities are intent on limiting or closing down speed camera partnership operations because of a lack of funds.  This clearly shows a complete disregard for public safety and reassurance.  There is a real risk that complacency and disregard for speed limits could follow any significant withdrawal of speed camera enforcement and result in an increase in road casualty figures, which no one wants to see happen.

“Any reduction in speed camera enforcement will place increased pressure on an already stretched police service.  The number of roads policing officers has reduced significantly in the last 10 years and this has to be urgently addressed.  The public deserve and expect this highly visible policing presence.  The road network facilitates the greatest risk to the public as it is a transit network for a host of criminal activity.

“I understand the fear and costly consequences of a shift towards the privatisation of speed camera enforcement. This would be totally unacceptable, particularly in relation to effectiveness, public perception, consistency and standards.  I also have extreme concerns over data management and information sharing issues.  We cannot afford the consequences of the private sector managing speed camera enforcement.”

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