Howard to do away with cash-cow speed cameras

Michael Howard today declared war on speed cameras used to raise money. The leader of the Opposition said that only cameras proved to have saved lives should have a place on the roads.

"There are too many of them," said Mr Howard. " If there weren't so many cameras, maybe people's driving would be a bit more responsible."

In an interview with Motor Cycle News magazine, he added: "Speed cameras should be there for road safety reasons.

"They shouldn't be there to raise revenue. That's not their function."

Mr Howard said the Conservative Party was committed to a review of speed cameras. Those in place purely to raise money would be disposed of.

Mr Howard also told MCN he would grant motorcycles "universal" access to bus lanes and appoint more traffic officers.

He added: "One of our intentions is to increase the number of police officers.

"That's a much better way of dealing with speeding and other road offences than cameras."