A vision of things to come?
Following on from yesterday's announcement that motorists could use the motorway hard shoulder to ease congestion comes another Government initiative.
While yesterday we reported that a 50mph limit will be in force while the hard shoulder is open to traffic, it has now been announced that ministers are planning to allow drivers to travel at 70mph in the outside lane... Provided that they pay for the privilege.
Apparently, the Department for Transport is examining creating a fast toll lane for drivers willing to pay for a quicker journey on the country's most congested highways in the rush hour.
It's part of Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly's blueprint for a network of toll and car-share lanes.
So, while the Government abandoned plans for national road pricing it is considering a special toll for drivers to use the 'fast' lane - and fining those who stray into it.
The plans, which could come into force within two years, would see selective tolls introduced on almost 500 miles of the UK motorway network.