Wales' 20mph speed limit zones could be scrapped this year after receiving a huge backlash from the public.
Jeremy Miles, one of the two candidates in the running to replace Mark Drakeford as First Minister, laid out his five immediate priorities earlier today (January 2).
Miles took to social media to announce what the five things he would do during his first week in office if he were to get elected.
One of these revolves around a review of the 20mph speed limit in Wales.
Jeremy Miles vowed to review the 20mph speed limits if elected
PA
The 52-year-old wrote: “Get the review of 20mph underway, it will be 6 months from introduction, so as I said on day one of my campaign – there’s no need to delay.”
The law was introduced in September and made Wales the first nation in the UK to impose 20mph as the default on all restricted roads.
Restricted roads are defined as roads with lampposts placed not more than 200 yards (183m) apart.
That typically includes built-up areas such as village and town centres.
Those found doing more than 20mph, could, in theory, be fined a minimum of £100 and receive three points on their licence.
The speed limit sparked a backlash when introduced, with more than 450,000 people signing a petition calling for the Welsh government to scrap it.
The backlash saw Drakeford’s approval rating fall by 11 points in the space of just two months.
Labour’s polling lead at constituency level for a Senedd election also suffered a hit, dropping by two points.
Miles has outlined his top priorities
PA
Mark Drakeford's approval rating fell by 11 points following the introduction of the 20mph zones
PA
Miles has now vowed to review the new speed limit to evaluate whether it should be scrapped.
The First Minister candidate also laid out a further four immediate policies.
He said: “If I am elected Welsh Labour leader and First Minister in 2024, here are 5 things I will do in my first week as FM:
“1. Appoint a government where at least half of all ministers are women.
“2. Kick start the setting up of a new Delivery Unit in the Welsh Government – we will look at everything we do with an absolutely relentless focus on practical delivery.
“3. Get the review of 20mph underway, it will be 6 months from introduction, so as I said on day one of my campaign – there’s no need to delay.
“4. Initiate fresh discussions with patients, health bodies and health unions about how we help the NHS adapt to respond to current and future pressures.
“5. Direct the establishment of a new National Economic Council to advise the government on strategic policies to deliver sustainable economic prosperity and solidarity.”
Miles further added: “I will be announcing policy priorities in the coming weeks. Today’s 5 actions point to kind of government I want to lead – reflecting our communities, focused on the economy, relentless in protecting and improving public services, and open to scrutiny. Let’s get on with it!”
