Metrication of speed limits is in principle desirable for consistency with road distance signs and with general national and EU policies in favour of metrication. Such a change will, however, have to be managed so as not to compromise road safety or the important targets in this regard set by the Government Strategy on Road Safety, 1998-2002. The relevant EU directive leaves it open to member states to determine the date for metrication of road traffic signs, distance and speed measurement.
A working group of relevant agencies, chaired by my Department, is to recommend on the implementation of metricated speed limits. It is not likely to be practicable to complete the implementation process by the current target date of mid-2001 and a revised target will be established based on the assessment of the above working group. It is envisaged that a publicity and information campaign will be organised in the lead up to the implementation date for metrication to ensure that the public and all concerned are well prepared for the changes.
