A fairer system of penalties for motorists caught speeding is outlined today in a new consultation paper.
Drivers not far above the speed limit would receive a lower penalty than those significantly above it under the plans.
Penalties would vary between £40 and two penalty points for the less serious offences up to £100 and six points for the most serious. The lower penalty would not apply to people speeding in 20 mph speed limits.
Transport Secretary Alistair Darling said the proposals would be more effective and appropriate than the current 'one-size fits all' approach.
"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 said.
The consultation document also welcomes police proposals to introduce speed awareness courses for first-time 'low-end' offenders. Motorists would pay to attend the course in lieu of the two point penalty.
Mr Darling said:
"I hope these courses, and continued enforcement, will encourage the minority of drivers who speed to slow down - for the sake of their and other road users' safety."
