Nigel Mansell backs increase of speed limit on motorways

London -  Former world motor racing champion Nigel Mansell has backed demands for the speed limit on Britain’s motorways to be increased to 80 mph.

The retired Formula 1 driver spoke out after being presented with a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace.

Mansell was honoured for his charity work with UK Youth which helps thousands of young people achieve their full potential.

His comments follow a government announcement that it is considering raising the speed limit from 70mph to 80mph, despite fears it will lead to more accidents.

“I don’t see why that becomes a problem,” the Daily Express quoted Mansell as saying.

“When I was a young man cars weren’t really able to do 70mph. They are very safe now.”

Philip Hammond, the then transport secretary, announced plans for a consultation on the issue last autumn.

At the time, he said the 70 mph limit was nearly 50 years old and out of date due to huge advances in safety and motoring technology.

Mansell also said at the investiture ceremony that motorists felt “victimised” by speed cameras, which they saw as a money-making exercise rather than a safety initiative.