asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Lord Bassam of Brighton on 31 March (WA 140), what steps they have taken to ensure that mobile speed cameras are only located in response to community concerns or at sites where there are speeding problems and a high risk of casualties. [HL3026]

The Department for Transport (DfT) does not monitor the placement of mobile speed cameras as this is entirely a decision for local partnerships. DfT Circular 01/2007, “Use of Speed and Red-light Cameras for Traffic Enforcement: Guidance on Deployment, Visibility and Signing” makes it clear that the objective of camera deployment is to reduce deaths and injuries on roads by reducing the level and severity of speeding. The guidance highlights the effectiveness of cameras when deployed at locations with a history of accidents. A copy of the guidance is in the Library of the House and is also available on the department's website at www.dft.gov.uk. The department's guidance does not restrict or fetter the police's discretion to enforce anywhere, at any time.