John Woodcock MP, Labour's Shadow Transport Minister, said in response to the government’s announcement on fines for over-running roadworks:

"By rejecting Labour’s plans for a ten-fold increase in fines for over-running roadworks, out-of-touch ministers have left hapless road users at the mercy of the tarmac tyrants.

"The Conservative-led government shelved Labour's fine increase plan for two years before caving into utility companies who can make the lives of road users and residents a misery if road works are badly planned or overrun.

"Everyone needlessly stuck in a roadwork jam or driven mad by late-running pneumatic drills deserves an apology from ministers for this abject climb down."