Hon Tony Ryall
National Police Spokesman

23 March 2004

Fewer warnings, more tickets, more revenue

More drivers will be getting speeding tickets as Police around the country give fewer warnings to motorists.

National MP Tony Ryall is questioning the approach, saying drivers respond better to a strong police presence on the road and personal interaction with officers.

"On the eve of the Government's 'Anywhere, Anytime' speed camera policy, this smacks of even more revenue gathering.

"Instead of operating a ten-kilometre tolerance, police are being encouraged to ticket all drivers over the speed limit.

"Auckland City's Road Policing Manager has written that she is encouraging a reduction in warnings and an increase in ticketing. Police National Road Safety Manager Inspector Fitzgerald is quoted as saying this policy is being adopted around the country.

"An officer has confirmed to me that this new no-discretion approach will see more tickets issued to people driving a few kilometres over the limit. These are hardly the people who cause accidents or fatalities.

"National says with limited police resources, it is drivers at excessive speed who should be targeted.

"Last year a record number of speeding tickets were issued but the road toll went up for the first time in years. So far this year the road toll is 106 compared to 92 for the same period last year. That's why we are calling for a thorough review of the current speed enforcement policies," said Mr Ryall.

"Minister Hawkins gave a completely confusing and unenlightening response in Parliament today which suggests that this no-discretion policy is underway," said Mr Ryall.

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