SPEEDING fines will be reduced for thousands of drivers if the latest government proposals become law.

Plans revealed this week include a graded system with lower penalties for drivers marginally over the limit and increased fines and penalty points for the most serious offences.

It is widely believed that the proposals are on the table as a result of growing concern about speed cameras.

Critics have accused the government of using the cameras to generate cash with little regard for the seriousness of the offence.

The latest plans would see fines of £40 and two penalty points at the lower end of the scale rising to £100 fines and six points for more serious offences.

Drivers convicted of less serious speeding offences would also be given the opportunity to attend speed awareness courses at their own expense, instead of receiving penalty points.

Police in Dorset gave the move a cautious welcome and said they hope drivers will approve.

Chief Inspector Rick Dowell, head of road policing, said: "We are looking at these new government proposals with interest and any initiative that focuses on increasing road safety is welcomed.

"The key issue from my perspective is whether these proposals find favour with the motoring public and will lead to greater voluntary compliance with speed limits or whether they will discourage inappropriate use of speed."

Transport Secretary Alistair Darling said he hopes to move away from the current "one size fits all" approach to speeding offences.

"We want to ensure that the level of the penalty fits the severity of the offence, including a crackdown on the most dangerous offences," he added. "The police would continue to enforce speed limits rigorously and motorists will always need to be aware that speeding is highly dangerous and if they are caught they will face a fine, points on their licences and disqualification if they persist."

First published: September 2