The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan (Lord Khan), is facing accusations from opposition politicians and motoring campaigners – including The Alliance of British Drivers – of a “cover-up” regarding a temporary speed limit change on the A20 near the Sidcup by-pass.
Critics allege that the speed limit restriction was introduced unlawfully, generating millions of pounds in invalid penalties, and that the Mayor actively blocked scrutiny into the matter.
The details surrounding the dispute, based on reporting from The Telegraph on November 1, 2026, centre on several key developments, including that in October 2023, Transport for London (TfL) introduced a temporary Traffic Regulation Order reducing the speed limit on a stretch of the A20 between Sidcup and Swanley from 70mph to 40mph following safety concerns and flooding incidents.
A Crown Court ruling recently found the temporary speed restriction to be unlawful, reportedly due to claims that the order was signed off by the wrong official. Campaigners argue this ruling could invalidate an estimated 66,000 fines, which collectively generated over £6 million for TfL.
In February 2025, the London Assembly passed a motion by 16 votes to 3 demanding an independent investigation into TfL’s handling of the temporary limit. Lord Khan vetoed the motion, stating that TfL’s internal traffic orders team was already looking into the concerns.
Thomas Turrell, the transport spokesman for the London Assembly Conservatives, publicly criticised the administration, calling the situation “an almighty motoring miscarriage of justice”.
Critics allege that TfL officials were aware of the authorisation issues for more than two years and intentionally resisted transparency to protect revenue and meet strategic police speeding enforcement targets.
The Mayor’s office and TfL rejected the allegations of misleading the public, maintaining that the speed limit was necessary for safety and that staff acted properly. For further details, see The Telegraph’s article at:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/11/01/sadiq-khan-covered-up-unlawful-speed-limit-change
Further excellent commentary can be found at:
https://x.com/TheMrLoophole/status/2116990918163062948 where Nick Freeman (aka The Mr Loophole, asks ‘will the MET arrest Lord Khan, O’Toole, Oliver and others over the A20 debacle?’
And…
https://ickonic.com/Watch/4158 where subscribers can see what Gareth Icke of Ickonic make of the whole affair.
ENDS
Author Paul Naylor is the Communications Director for The Alliance of British Drivers (ABD).
For all media enquiries, contact Paul Naylor on 07914 304 504 or email paul@mediaandyou.co.uk
Notes: Founded in 1992, the Alliance of British Drivers (ABD) is the leading organisation promoting the interests and concerns of drivers in the United Kingdom.
The UK has over 37 million drivers – that is a majority; we should stop tolerating the way we are treated by the government and local councils.
Cars, vans and taxis account for 80% of the mileage of all trips in the UK, and over 65% of goods being carried by road. The road network, and the people who use it, are of vital importance to the nation’s economy. Drivers should expect the road network to be improved and maintained to a standard that is fit for purpose. They should be able to use the roads in a safe and responsible manner without being subject to unreasonable charges, restrictions or penalties.
