The British Department of Transport has issued consultation documents on the issue of maximum speeds and weights of agricultural trailers and combinations.

The documents seek views on increasing the weight limits, for a combination of agricultural vehicles, to a maximum of 31 tonnes.

A separate consultation also seeks views on road speeds for conventional tractors.

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The current highest speed allowed in Britain and Northern Ireland for most conventional tractors is 20 mph. Under the proposals, this could be increased to 25 mph, while the weight limit for agricultural trailers and combinations could increase to 21 tonnes for agricultural trailers and 31 tonnes for combinations.

Today, tractors are type approved to European harmonised legislation for speeds up to 40 km/h (30 mph).

It is being suggested that vehicles would have to pass an annual roadworthiness test to qualify for the changes.