The Liberal Democrats have voted overwhelmingly in favour of widespread 20mph limits, and Government investment in this, at their party conference.

They called for local authorities "to give active consideration to introducing 20mph limits in existing residential and other suitable roads over the next few years, with schemes to be designed in consultation with local residents" and for a minister within the Department for Transport to be responsible for working with local authorities to achieve this.

Julie Townsend, Brake deputy chief executive, said: "Brake strongly welcomes this recognition by the Liberal Democrats that 20mph is the most appropriate speed limit on residential streets.

“Slowing down to 20 gives drivers far more chance to react in an emergency and avoid hitting someone, significantly reducing the threat posed to the most vulnerable road users.”