The speed limit on Britain’s motorways is set to rise to 80mph but with a big expansion in the number of 20mph zones in cities and towns, The Independent has learnt.

The Government's intention to bring in the new speed limit will be announced at the Conservative Conference next week by the Transport Secretary, Philip Hammond, as part of a deal negotiated with the Liberal Democrats.

...Mr Hammond argues that the new 80mph limit will shorten journey times and help boost the economy. But the move will be criticised by environmentalists who point out that cars use about 20 per cent more fuel at the higher speed. Road safety campaigners condemn the proposals, saying it will lead to an increase in deaths and serious injuries.

I'll stick to 65mph, thanks.

TBH almost everyone I see on the motorway is driving at either 80mph or well above it anyway so I really don't see that this will have an effect.

Yes, but the point is that the majority of motorists who are doing so will no longer be criminals.

Turning a blind eye to crap driving by consent

Most of the drivers doing 80 now will still be breaking the law because they will simply increase their speed to 90.

Corrected

Yes, but the point is that the majority of motorists who are doing so will no longer be criminals.
Policing by consent.

It is not as if some of the vehicles cannot cope. Real and actual stopping distances are lower than the Highway Code, plus drivers will drive at a limit they feel comfortable at. The law about driving without due care and attention would still be applicable if an accident were to occur even below the speed limit. Plus the M25 has variable speed limits anyway.