The government is scared there are an awful lot of speeders

Mary Williams Brake

They will urge the committee not to make rash recommendations that would be the first step on the road to criminalising ordinary drivers.

Mary Williams, founder of road safety group Brake, said she had observed speeders - especially company car drivers - who were unaware of the risks.

"All of those drivers would feel confident that their behaviour is absolutely fine.

Political problem

"But not only are they speeding but they are speeding right next to each other, they are right up behind each other. This is a classic cause of pile-ups on motorways."

Ms Williams said the government was not doing enough to portray speeding as an offence like drink driving.

British motorways are statistically the safest roads in Europe

John Dawson AA

"The government is scared there are an awful lot of speeders," she said.

"To come down hard on speeding is not going to be a politically good move. That is absolutely tragic and it has got to change."

She called for more TV advertising and stronger statements from government.

Right speed

But John Dawson, from the AA, insisted the government must take into account driving habits and actual road safety.

"All drivers say they exceed the speed limit," he said.

"It's about getting the right speed on the right road because people understand the risks.

"Drivers are statistically right that the driven speeds on motorways are safe.

"British motorways are statistically the safest roads in Europe."