27 FEBRUARY 1999

Sussex Green Party's Demand Action On Road Crime

Sussex roads are being turned into raceways and the resultant crashes are claiming more and more lives.  The Green Party regrets that funding for traffic policing is way down the list of Government priorities. 

Concerned by this continued loss of life, The Confederation of Sussex Green Parties at a meeting today, launched their campaign for a new get-tough policy to rid Sussex roads of those drivers who refuse to drive within the law. 

Speaking for the Green Parties, John Tyler said:  "Nationally over 3000 people are killed on the roads each year.  Are we just going to accept this carnage year after year?  Inappropriate speed is a killer, yet despite expensive advertising campaigns to reverse the culture of speed, results prove nothing works better than a hefty fine and a driving ban.  No excuses accepted". 

Continuing John Tyler insisted:  "We demand positive action now.  The papers are full of worried residents pleading for action.  Headlines such as  "Petition calls for traffic cuts".  "Speeding is a bigger worry than burglary" indicate there is massive public support for policies which reclaim the roads from those who treat speed limits and road safety with such contempt." 

"Tough penalties must be handed out to drivers who think they can get away with mugging the Highway Code and making things so unsafe for all road users.  Furthermore the Green Party believes that if road crime occurs because of an employers unrealistic demands of white van man etc, then both the driver and employer should face the court for sentence. 

As we approach a new millennium the Green Party is determined to remove danger man or woman from the road and give more space to those who impact less on our lives and the environment.

~ends~