A GOVERNMENT plan to allow higher tractor speeds and heavier tractor and trailer combinations will help both farmers and road safety, Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron has said.

But the MP suggested the change should be reviewed in future to ensure "we strike the right balance".

Under the changes, due to be introduced next spring, the maximum combination weight limit for tractors and trailers will increase from 24.39 tonnes to 31 tonnes and will set a new effective speed limit of 25mph (40km/h), up from 20mph.

The new combined weight will maximise the amount of produce transported in each journey, resulting in fewer journeys and reducing the risk of accidents.

The second phase of changes will see a further consideration of increases in weight and speed limits and a road-worthiness test for some agricultural tractors and trailers by summer 2016.

“I hope that this package of proposals will help farmers and keep our roads safe," said Mr Farron. "But the government must review this again in due course to make sure the right balance has been struck.