Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has today said that he will not support any European Union plans to introduce the fitting of ‘Intelligent Speed Adaption’ systems into cars across Europe. Mr Nicholson spoke after the possibility emerged that the proposed road safety measures due to be announced by the European Commission this autumn, could include the introduction of the ‘Intelligent Speed Adaption’ scheme.
Mr Nicholson said, “The ISA scheme includes the fitting of an in-vehicle device that will ensure that drivers stick to the speed limit. The device works by satellite signals that are sent to the car, which will then automatically apply the brakes when the speed limit is reached.
“This device is completely unnecessary in my eyes, as across Europe, the United Kingdom has a better road safety record than any other country. Last year, the number of people in the UK who died following road traffic accidents was less than half of the figure in Germany.
“If the ISA scheme is introduced, existing cars will have to go to garages to have the devices fitted - at their own expense. It is unreasonable to ask any car owner to foot the bill for allowing the EU to effectively have its foot on your brake pedal.”