Pubdate:  Sun, 07 Sep 1997

Source:    The Sunday Times (UK)
Contact:   Gluesniffing test for drivers 
by Nicholas Rufford 
Home Affairs Editor 

MOTORISTS are to face roadside tests for gluesniffing
as well as alcohol consumption under a crackdown on
intoxicated drivers. Ministers are poised to unveil a new
generation of breath tester, designed to be more reliable
and to alert police if drivers have inhaled volatile solvents
or substances such as glues, gas or aerosols. 

The move is part of a tightening of Britain's drinkdrive
laws, due later this year. Other measures expected include
reducing the legal limit for alcohol and strengthening police
powers to take samples. 

The new device, which is smaller and lighter than its
predecessors, is set to become the standard used by police
forces in England and Wales. It represents the culmination
of seven years of research by specialists in the Home
Office forensic science service. 

Police have become increasingly concerned about
accidents caused by drivers intoxicated by solvents.
"Young drivers beat existing tests by inhaling solvents
instead of drinking alcohol," said a Home Office official. 

There is no statutory limit on the level of solvents in blood,
but it is illegal to drive while under their influence. Motorists
found with them in their blood can be prosecuted for
driving while unfit through drink or drugs, an offence that
can result in the loss of a driving licence, a fine and even
imprisonment. 

Copyright 1997 The Times Newspapers Limited