Dave Thompson MSP

Political posturing by desparate Lib Dem puts vores before saving lives

The SNP has today criticised Danny Alexander for his ‘grossly irresponsible’ comments on road safety on the A9.

As reported on the front page of the Press and Journal, the Westminster Lib Dem MP is attacking the Scottish Government’s plans to reduce road traffic accidents on the A9.

Dave Thompson, MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, has sections of the main road artery into Highlands in his constituency and helped bring about the increase for lorries from 40mph to 50mph on the road.

Mr Thompson said: “This is grossly irresponsible by Danny Alexander – he is sending out a very foolish message and trying to undermine the potential implications of speeding on the A9 as set out by the partners of the A9 Safety Group including Police Scotland.

“Mr Alexander is wrong in his assertions about average speed cameras and is desperately scrabbling around for issues to support his re-election next year.

“He is anxiously political posturing in an effort to save his job – but in effect is actually putting votes before saving lives on the A9.

“Accidents have reduced at every location where average speed cameras have been used and the A9 Safety Group have made the clear and compelling case for their installation to make the A9 safer. Speed cameras will not penalise people who stick to the law – but they will help to stop other motorists from speeding.”

Notes:

http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/3668542

http://a9road.info/safety-statistics/