The UK’s 70mph speed limit could be reduced to 55mph under Green Party plans to target drivers. A policy paper drawn up by the party has listed proposals to wage what the Conservative Party have branded as a “war on motorists”, according to the Daily Telegraph.

The plans include “incrementally” increasing taxes on motoring, reducing the number of parking spaces and making drivers retake their tests every five years. Meanwhile, the speed limit in urban areas and villages would be reduced to 20mph.

The report reads:

“On major roads outside of built-up areas, the maximum speed limit allowed would be 55mph, to maximise the efficiency of fuel use as well as improving safety.”

The paper justified the proposed change in national motoring policy based on the fact that “car driving is not a right but a privilege” and the measures would improve both road safety and the environment.

Richard Holden, the shadow transport secretary, said:

“Forcing 55mph limits on motorways, hiking taxes and punishing drivers will cripple commuters, damage the economy and make everyday journeys a misery. This is a full-blown war on motorists.

The Green report went on to suggest ways to “reduce the impact of commuting” by using “telecommunication technology so that working from home is more easily arranged”, in an apparent nod to promoting online meetings from home.

(Picture: National Highways)