Councils should be given more powers to enforce speed limits, a city transport boss told the Commons yesterday.

Ian Davey, deputy leader and lead member for transport at Brighton and Hove City Council, was invited to give evidence on cycling safety before Parliament.

Speaking at a Transport Committee meeting in London, the Green councillor said although he favoured compliance over enforcement, it was “important” councils were given powers to enforce cyclist-friendly schemes like 20mph speed zones.

Asked whether the police worked in co-operation with the council to enforce such schemes, Councillor Davey said: “We work well with the police but they have their pressures.

“One of the problems in encouraging compliance is that people know a transgression won’t be enforced.

“That’s why it’s important moving traffic offences be given to local authorities. It is essential those powers come to local authorities.”

Asked later whether there were problems with heavy goods vehicles and safety of cyclists in Brighton and Hove, Coun Davey said: “Yes, of course we have a problem and it is down to what local authorities can do with junction design, where the funds are available.

“But again it comes down to enforcement and having the powers to enforce manoeuvres at junctions. With that we can help make junctions safer.”

Former racing cyclist Chris Boardman MBE, now policy adviser for British Cycling, also gave evidence at the committee.

The panel, including representatives from the Local Government Association and Surrey County Council, were also quizzed about the reaction from motorists should local authorities be given more power to take control of enforcing transport policies.

Coun Davey suggested a default 20mph speed limit would improve road safety and save councils cash.

He also called for a national campaign to promote respect between cyclists and motorists and said the UK needed more money to improve road design.