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1967: Motorists react to new motorway speed limit

By Jodie Chay Oneill | April 29, 2024

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The 70 mph speed limit was trialled from December 1965 to see if it helped reduce traffic fatalities

On 12 July 1967, Britain's motorways saw the start of a permanent speed limit of 70 mph.

Initially tested from December 1965, the 70 mph speed limit aimed to assess its impact on reducing traffic fatalities.

In July 1967, the Road Research Laboratory (RRL) confirmed its effectiveness, prompting Barbara Castle, the Minister for Transport under the Labour government, to implement the speed restriction permanently.

ITN's Keith Hatfield conducted interviews with motorists on the M1 regarding the change, revealing a spectrum of opinions ranging from satisfaction to discontent.

Do you remember the 70 mph speed limit being made permanent? let us know in the comments. 

Watch: Peoples reactions to seatbelts being made compulsory

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