The Transfer of Functions (Road Traffic) Order 1999

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order provides for the transfer of certain functions under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the 1984 Act”) and the Road Traffic Act 1988 (“the 1988 Act”).

The functions under sections 64, 65 and 81(2) of the 1984 Act so far as they are exercisable jointly by the Secretaries of State charged with general responsibility under that Act in relation to England, Wales and Scotland, are transferred to the Secretary of State (article 2(1)). Those functions relate to the specifying by regulations of objects or devices as traffic signs, giving general directions as to the placing of traffic signs and making an order to increase or reduce the speed limit on restricted roads.

The functions of the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Secretary of State for Wales acting jointly under section 36(5) of the 1988 Act are transferred to the Secretary of State (article 2(2)). Those functions relate to specifying by regulations any traffic sign for certain purposes of the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988.

The Order also makes provision for the transfer of any property, rights and liabilities relevant to the functions and makes other supplemental and consequential provisions (articles 3 and 4).