A leading organisation representing Britain's classic car enthusiasts has pledged to mount a robust response to the Labour government's newly announced Road Safety Strategy. The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC), which speaks for over 550 clubs and museums, has vowed to protect the unrestricted use of historic vehicles on UK roads.
FBHVC's Cautious Stance on New Safety Proposals
The Federation issued its statement following the strategy's unveiling last week. Lindsay Irvine, the FBHVC's legislation director, clarified the group's position. While traditionally supportive of well-conceived safety measures, the Federation will examine the consultation in minute detail, specifically through the lens of historic vehicle use.
"Should we consider that any elements of the proposals being consulted on might unjustifiably harm the operation of any of the many historic vehicle types that our 250,000 affiliated members use on the roads, then we shall not hesitate to respond appropriately," Irvine stated. The core mission, the FBHVC emphasised, is to uphold the freedom to use historic vehicles of all types without restriction.
Key Elements of Labour's Road Safety Push
This strategy, the first of its kind in over a decade, aims to save thousands of lives through a mix of training, technology, and tougher penalties for offenders. One of the most significant potential changes is a consultation on lowering the drink-drive limit in England and Wales.
The current limit has stood at 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath since 1967, making it the highest in Europe. The government is considering reducing it to 22 micrograms, bringing it into line with the limit that has been in force in Scotland since 2014.
Broader Support and Critical Context
Road safety charities have largely welcomed the government's focus. Nicholas Lyes, a director at IAM RoadSmart, described the last ten years as "a lost decade" in reducing road casualties. He praised the proposed action on drug-driving, calling it a "growing menace," and supported granting police additional powers to tackle offenders at the roadside.
As the FBHVC launches its own consultations to gather views from classic vehicle owners nationwide, a dialogue is set to begin between the government's safety ambitions and the historic vehicle community's cherished freedoms.
