Moves to raise the maximum speed for tractors and increase the maximum weight of trailers have been welcomed.
The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) has praised the commitment made by the Department for Transport (DFT) to implement suggestions made under the Farming Regulation Taskforce Report.
DFT's consultation on the issue could see maximum tractor speedrise from 20mph to 25mph, and maximum combined weight of a tractor and trailer go from 24 tonnes to 31 tonnes.
CLA president Harry Cotterell, said: “It is hugely encouraging to see a government department looking at ways in whichit can remove red tape and burdens to agricultural businesses.
“The scale and sophistication of agricultural machinery has increased significantly over the past decade but the law has changed little since the 1980s.
“The proposed changes will more appropriately reflect the capabilities of modern agricultural machinery, allowing the UK’s farmers to carry on with their businesses more efficiently.”
Cotterell added: “Allowing these changes would also bring the UK in line with competitors in other EU member states.
“It achieves the right balance between road safety and improving the competitiveness of our farmers.”
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