What's all this about?

Motor racing on Britain's roads has been illegal for over 100 years. There have been events on closed roads but each one has required an Act of Parliament to suspend the Road Traffic act, which is why it doesn't happen very often. The Motor Sport Association (MSA) has been campaigning since 2010 to change the law and last week the Deregulation Bill received Royal Ascent - the first step towards changing the law.

Who backs the bill?

Support for the campaign has come from all parties, with the MSA targeting MPs to emphasise the value of motor sport events to local communities. Rt Hon Ken Clarke is the Minister responsible for driving the legislation forward.

Rob Jones, MSA Chief Executive, commented: "This landmark development is the result of a lot of hard work by a small handful of people behind the scenes, with vital backing from thousands of supporters within the British motor sport community.

"In particular we must recognise the invaluable contributions of both the Rt Hon Ken Clarke, the Minister responsible for driving the legislation, and Ben Wallace MP, who has relentlessly championed the cause of motor sport within Westminster these past five years and kept the pressure on his colleagues when necessary. I would also like to thank all those who have lent their backing, whether by responding to consultation, writing to their MP or simply by voicing their support."

What happens next?

Secondary legislation is required before event organisers can start arranging races; this takes the form of a statutory instrument detailing the enabling powers. The MSA will work with the relevant people to move things forward as soon as possible after the General Election in May.