Police were called to the scene on the clockwise stretch at J14 at 9.30 this morning.
Officers and paramedics performed CPR on the driver of the van, a man believed to be in his 70s, but he died at the scene.
The driver of the lorry did not suffer any serious injuries.
The clockwise stretch was closed for over 4 hours.
Any witnesses or those with dash cam footage are asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 2484/18MAR.
Alternatively, to remain 100% anonymous please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.