The number of drivers fined for speeding on motorways has soared by 25 per cent in 12 months amid a rise in the number of “stealth cameras” used.

Figures obtained by The Sunday Times under a Freedom of Information request show that at least 112,000 drivers were handed penalty notices or went to court for motorway offences last year. Some 24 out of 45 police forces provided data, and in these areas, 112,654 motorists were handed speeding penalties in 2014, compared with just 54,720 in 2010. The offence is punishable with a minimum £100 fine and three penalty points on a licence or a court summons.

Last week, both the Conservatives and the Labour party insisted that the grey cameras would be painted yellow to make it clear to drivers that enforcement cameras are in use.