Local MEP Brian Simpson has called for a reduction in drink driving limits as part of a European Union Road Safety Plan.  Speaking at the Parliament’s Transport Committee in Brussels Mr Simpson supported moves to bring in a level of 0.5 across the EU and 0.2 for inexperienced younger drivers under 24 with less than two years experience.

“I appreciate that this move may be controversial, but the fact is that there is an increase in drink driving incidents in both the UK and across Europe and something needs to be done.  The UK level of 0.8 is the highest in Europe and was set 30 years ago.  It is about time this level was reduced” said Mr Simpson.

Many members of the European Parliament wanted lower limits, including the zero option, but Mr Simpson pointed out that this would be difficult to enforce.

“To have zero alcohol blood levels is impossible to enforce, one drink of some medicines and you would go over the limit, which is why my solution of 0.5 is not only reasonable, but also enforceable.”  commented the Labour MEP. 

Other ideas contained in the Road Safety report include compulsory daytime running lights on cars (which Mr Simpson opposes,)  compulsory seat belts on buses and coaches and for a study to be set up to examine the issue of driver fatigue.  The European Parliament’s view will now go back to the Council of Ministers and the European Commission for their opinion.