On March 16th, Vaughan Gething was made the new leader of Welsh Labour, succeeding Mark Drakeford. However, before this announcement, Wrexham’s Member of Parliament, Sarah Atherton, took the opportunity to address both Vaughan Gething and Jeremy Miles, urging them to reconsider the Welsh Government’s implementation of the 20mph speed limit policy.
In her letter to the leadership candidates, Atherton highlighted the policy’s big financial implications, estimated at approximately £32 million, along with the projected economic impact on Wales, which could reach £4.5 billion.
Having been a vocal critic of the blanket 20mph speed limit since its inception, Atherton emphasized that while lower speed limits around areas such as schools and hospitals might be appropriate, the overwhelming response to a petition urging the government to revoke the policy, garnering nearly 470,000 signatures, cannot be disregarded.
Sarah Atherton reiterated her stance, affirming that while both leadership contenders had previously supported and voted in favor of the 20mph policy, Welsh Labour must acknowledge and rectify its mistakes.
She emphasized the need for the government to prioritize issues such as ensuring timely medical assistance for elderly patients, addressing road maintenance concerns, and managing school capacities rather than persisting with unpopular initiatives.
Atherton asserted that the people of Wales deserve leadership that prioritizes their interests over vanity projects and urged a reconsideration of the 20mph default speed limit.
In response, a spokesperson for the Welsh Government defended the policy, emphasizing its aim to enhance road safety and save lives in residential areas, backed by thorough research and majority support from Members of the Senedd.
As the leadership transition unfolds, the debate surrounding the 20mph speed limit policy underscores the importance of addressing community concerns and ensuring policies align with the best interests of the Welsh population.
