Rudi Vis, MP for Finchley & Golders Green, has thrown his weight behind a scheme to bring in 10mph speed limits in some residential streets.

The Home Zones Bill is understood to have cross-party backing in Parliament and, if passed, will enable local authorities like Barnet to bring in the go-slow zones.

Mr Vis is one of 144 MPs who have put their name to the scheme, which would score a big blow for environmental and road safety lobbies in the council.

This week Stan Cross, Labour chairman of the council's public works committee, welcomed the news. He said: "It's great to work with our local MP on this. It is something we are keen to do, certainly round some residential areas and schools.

"I can't see a problem with it -- child safety is important, that's why we've just had the Walk to School Week."

Mr Cross added the speed limits would probably be introduced in one of the LA21 environmental project areas, like Friary Park, Victoria Park or Cricklewood.

But not everybody was happy. Conservative councillor Brian Salinger, a vocal opponent of the Friary environmental scheme, doubted the speed limits would be enforceable.

"Given that motorists don't take a great deal of notice of 30mph speed limits, the likelihood of them taking notice of a 10mph speed limit must be even less," he said.

"Who is going to pay for the enforcement? There will be enormous costs involved."

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