Liberal Democrats fight to protect school children

At July’s Buckinghamshire Council meeting, the Liberal Democrats proposed a motion to have a 20mph speed limit for all vehicles when they are passing a school. 

The motion, which was designed to protect families, school children and the community as a whole, was blocked by the Buckinghamshire Conservatives. 

Anna Crabtree, Beaconsfield PPC,  said, “Reducing speed could save lives, promote health and well-being and reduce environmental impact. Other councils of all political parties across the country have implemented this motion and it’s been a huge success. Sadly the views and needs of our residents here in Bucks are not at the forefront of our Conservative councillors’ priorities. Rather than following their misguided leadership, they should be working with all councillors to protect the safety of our children.” 

If you are involved in a collision at 20mph, you are five times more likely to survive than at 30mph. In addition, reduced speeds near schools have other benefits, including reduced air pollution affecting our children.

In arguing against the motion, several Conservative councillors said “the plan would be expensive” and “children should learn to cross the road”. Liberal Democrats don’t believe you can put a price on a child’s life. We will continue to fight to protect our children’s safety.