Party leaders from across Dudley Council have written to the Home Secretary calling for a change in the law to tackle illegal car cruising, following a local petition.
Cabinet member Councillor Damian Corfield launched the petition for Ben’s Law with his wife Lynette, in memory of their 19-year-old son. Ben Corfield and his friend Liberty Charris were on foot in November 2022, when they were tragically hit and killed during an illegal road race.
The petition, which has garnered more than 1,000 signatures, calls on the government to change the law and impose a blanket ban on organising, promoting, or attending street racing events throughout the country.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said: “The loss of Ben and Liberty has been utterly devastating in our local communities and it’s heartbreaking that nothing can bring these youngsters back to their families.
“I and the other three group leaders in Dudey have come together to write to the Home Secretary in support of the petition for Ben’s Law. “
As it stands, police are forced to rely on existing traffic laws, which only apply to drivers, and require proof that people are in the act of racing.
Councillor Adam Aston, leader of Dudley Labour Group, said: “I would encourage everyone in our local communities to join us in petitioning for Ben’s Law, which could have a seismic impact on the lives of families across the country.
"As a paramedic myself, I'm only too aware of the devastating impact of road traffic collisions.
“Not only would this law make it a criminal offence to organise, promote or attend unofficial road racing events, but it would also serve as a reminder of the huge gamble people take by driving recklessly.”
The letter to the Home Secretary has been signed by leader of Dudley Council, Councillor Patrick Harley; leader of Dudley Labour Group, Councillor Adam Aston; leader of Dudley Liberal Democrats Group, Councillor Ryan Priest and leader of the Black Country Party, Councillor Pete Lowe.
Comments
Add a comment