A 10-point motoring manifesto has been drawn up by the RAC Foundation which it wants all political parties to support in the run-up to the June 7 general election. The manifesto includes seeking Government support for an independent review of motoring costs across the board and for manufacturers to cut vehicle emissions.

Foundation chairman Sir Christopher Foster said: “We are looking for support for our 10 manifesto pledges which combined, would give motorists a much better deal. Our manifesto for motorists would improve safety, the environment, mobility and the economy.' The 10-point election manifesto says:

  • Motorists do not want a return to the fuel duty escalator and want to see fuel duty more in line with the rest of Europe. It wants Government support for an independent review to look at the cost of motoring across the board.
  • More emphasis on in-car technological improvements to help reduce vehicle emissions, rather than blunt fiscal disincentives. Support for improved road schemes.
  • Support for fiscal incentives to encourage the take-up of ultra-low sulphur petrol and further incentives for a green fuel fund to support research into alternative fuels.
  • An end to unnecessary disruption caused by streetworks by the introduction of a full lane rental system. It would require utility and cable companies to pay a 'lane rental' for the disruption.
  • Enhancement of maintenance and road improvement targets as well as journey reliability standards by appointing a Roads Watchdog.
  • Introduction of a fair enforcement system with speed cameras and new limits only introduced when there is a clear case for reducing accidents. Police should target hard-core offenders rather than law abiding motorists. Support for a greater emphasis on traffic policing and targeting of serious offenders rather than over-reliance on electronic enforcement. A review of speed limits with some increased and some decreased.
  • Support for an anti-drugs and driving campaign.
  • Increased emphasis on accident investigation to determine the causes of accidents so lessons can be learned.
  • Local authorities to provide free secure motorcycle and enhanced car parking facilities funded from parking ticket revenue.
  • Local authorities to reduce congestion by public transport and road improvements.