The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched a consultation on raising the speed limit for armoured vehicles on English and Welsh roads.

At present, the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 sets the limit at 20mph. The amendment would double this to 40mph, in a bid to provide thorough training for rapid deployments and cut congestion caused by slow-moving vehicles.

Armoured vehicles were able to go at up to 40mph until the end of 2013, when it was confirmed that they fall under the restrictions outlined in the 1984 legislation.

Furthermore, a higher speed limit would reduce fuel consumption and accelerate the testing and training processes which all tanks and drivers undergo. Even if higher speeds are permitted, actual speeds would be subject to the capabilities of individual vehicles and situation-specific risk assessments. However, it was pointed out that slow-moving armoured vehicles could in themselves be a hazard, particularly on busy roads where other traffic travels at high speeds.
The consultation will run between March 13th and April 24th.