27 June 2011 – Keith achieved a big step towards improving road safety across Europe last week when the European Parliament transport committee adopted his proposed amendments to a report. His amendments specifically called for a 30 km/h speed limit in urban areas across Europe, and an EU-wide blood alcohol limit.

After the vote, Keith who is the Green MEP with responsibility for road safety issues in the European Parliament said:

“Road accidents across Europe remain at unacceptably high levels and there is a need for a more concerted effort to improve road safety. The European Parliament transport committee has today pointed road safety in the right direction, notably by recommending an EU-wide speed limit of 30 km/h in urban areas. MEPs also supported the introduction of an EU blood alcohol limit.

“This will mean drivers have to respect the same road rules no matter where they drive, making it easier for drivers and safer for all those on or near our roads. Excessive speed and alcohol are the main causes of road accidents in Europe and improving road safety means tackling these two problems head on.”

The vote on the amendments tabled by Keith and his fellow committee members took place on Tuesday 21 June.