Euro MP seeks assurances on Traffic Policing

A North West Labour Euro MP has expressed a fear that the severe cuts in the policing budget could lead to more drunken drivers escaping punishment this Christmas and New Year.

The Chairman of the European Parliament's Transport Committee Brian Simpson is writing to the North West's Chief Constables seeking assurances that Traffic Police will still be visible and active during the festive season particularly against drunk drivers.

"I know that Police budgets and frontline policing are under threat from Government cuts. But it is absolutely imperative that the crackdown on drink-driving is maintained in the upcoming Christmas and New Year period and throughout the whole of 2011. Drivers under the influence of drink or drugs a menace to society and should be brought to book" said Mr Simpson.

Speaking at a Road Safety seminar in Brussels, Mr Simpson raised the issue of enforcement of Road Safety regulations throughout Europe and praised the British police as being the best when it comes to enforcement, but warned that the top spot could be compromised if a reduction in traffic police is forced onto Chief Constables.

"I am also making a plea for drivers to act responsibly all year round, not only during the Christmas period, by not driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs" added Mr Simpson.