MADAM, Everything I have read on the increase in the motorway speed limit correctly highlights the likely increased risks to safety yet I read nothing regarding the fuel consumption side of things. In my fairly frugal diesel car, increasing the average speed on a motorway from 70 to 80mph reduces consumption by about 15% and thus increases CO2 output by a similar figure. So the knock on effect of such an increase is going to have both emissions targets and climate change implications. Call me an old cynic if you like, but it has recently been stated in the press that the Great British Public has managed to reduce their fuel consumption by 15%, the result of which is that the Exchequer is getting about £2bn less in tax revenue. 15% eh? About the same as an increase in fuel consumption if speeds are increased? Now why do I feel a bit suspicious of this Government's motives?

CJF, The Hendre