Labour Government Announces New National Road Safety Education Guidance
The Labour Party government has confirmed plans to launch new national guidance on road safety education later this year, based on the rules of the Highway Code. This initiative aims to enhance safety for all road users by providing updated educational resources.
Government Commitment to Road Safety
Labour Party Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood emphasized that improving road safety is a top priority for ministers. "Injuries and fatalities from road collisions caused by driving are unacceptable, and this Government will work hard to prevent these tragedies for all road users," she stated.
Greenwood highlighted the publication of the new Road Safety Strategy on January 7, 2026, which outlines the government's vision for a safer future on roads. "Following updates to the Highway Code in 2022, the department ran large-scale THINK! advertising campaigns to raise awareness of the changes," she shared.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Plans
The government continues to run year-round radio filler adverts through the THINK! campaign to encourage compliance with guidance for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. However, Greenwood acknowledged that more work is needed to embed these changes and improve overall awareness of the Highway Code.
"We are considering options in this area, and further details will be shared in due course," she said. "As our road environment and technologies evolve, providing education for all road users throughout their lifetime is vital to improving road safety."
Parliamentary Inquiry and Implementation Details
The announcement follows a question from Helen Maguire, MP for Epsom and Ewell, who asked about the potential merits of a public awareness campaign for the new Highway Code rules. While the government has revealed its plans, specific details on enforcement or potential rule changes for drivers have not yet been published.
This move builds on previous initiatives, such as updates to the Graduated Driving Licence for drivers aged 17 to 23 in England and Wales, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to road safety under the Labour administration.
