The Green Party has proposed a series of radical transport reforms that would see the speed limit on Britain's motorways slashed to just 55mph. Under plans championed by deputy leader Zack Polanski, the party aims to wage what critics have labelled a 'war on motorists' through measures designed to drastically reduce car usage across the country.
Comprehensive Transport Overhaul
Newly unearthed proposals reveal the Green Party would implement a comprehensive strategy of travel 'demand management' if they were to enter government. The primary objective would be to systematically reduce both the speed and volume of motorised traffic on UK roads.
Speed Limit Reductions
The most eye-catching proposal involves cutting the current 70mph motorway speed limit by 15mph to just 55mph. This reduction would also apply to dual carriageways across the nation. Additionally, controversial Welsh-style 20mph limits would become mandatory in all built-up residential areas.
The official Green Party transport policy states: 'On major roads outside of built up areas, the maximum speed limit allowed would be 55mph, to maximise the efficiency of fuel use as well as improving safety.'
Regular Driving Tests
In another significant departure from current practice, motorists would be compelled to retake their driving tests at regular intervals, potentially as often as every five years. The policy explicitly states that 'car driving is not a right but a privilege' and that tests would be made 'more comprehensive and stricter' to ensure ongoing driver competence.
Financial Disincentives for Drivers
The Green proposals include substantial financial measures designed to discourage car ownership and usage. Road fuel taxes would be 'increased incrementally' over time, with the policy noting that 'road fuel tax is an important factor in encouraging users to be more mileage conscious and to opt for smaller, more fuel efficient cars.'
Parking Restrictions
Parking availability would face systematic reduction under the plans. The Green Party would 'amend and enforce planning rules to steadily reduce car parking requirements' nationwide. Furthermore, drivers could be required to pay for parking outside their own homes, with the policy asserting that 'car parking is not a right that any driver has on the road.'
Political Backlash and Defence
The Conservative Party has launched a fierce attack on the proposals, accusing Mr Polanski of pursuing a deliberate 'war on drivers.' Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden claimed the plans would 'make driving slower, more expensive and, in many cases, impossible' for ordinary Britons.
Mr Holden elaborated: 'This will drive up costs for working families and bring the country to a standstill. It is completely out of touch with how people live. Only the Conservatives will stand up for drivers, protect your freedom to move, and keep Britain moving.' He described the proposals as a 'Green light for madness' and evidence that the Green Party is 'out of touch' with public sentiment.
Green Party Justification
The Greens have defended their proposals as 'evidence-based measures' that would deliver multiple benefits. Former Green Party leader Baroness Natalie Bennett explained: 'Green Party transport policy is focused on making public transport reliable, available, affordable and high quality. Evidence shows that many people would choose public transport if it were more convenient and better value.'
The party argues that their approach would significantly reduce road traffic accidents while helping drivers save money on fuel through improved efficiency. They maintain that alongside enhancing public transport options, these measures represent a responsible approach to transport policy that prioritises safety, environmental sustainability, and long-term cost savings for motorists.
Broader Policy Context
These transport proposals form part of a wider suite of controversial Green Party policies that have recently come to light. The party has also advocated for legalising all drugs including heroin and crack cocaine, arguing they 'enhance human relationships and human creativity.' Additionally, their official defence strategy calls for drastic cuts to Britain's armed forces and the complete scrapping of the nuclear deterrent.
In immigration policy, the Greens have proposed giving illegal migrants free housing and a basic income with no work requirements, as part of their vision for 'a world without borders.' These various policy positions collectively represent one of the most radical political platforms currently proposed by any major UK political party.
