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Sunday, 15 July 2007, 23:18 GMT 00:18 UK

Summer crackdown on drink-driving

A motorist stopped by police takes a breath test Scotland's police chiefs have warned they will use the full weight of their powers to crackdown on summer drink-drivers.

Officers from all eight forces will breathalyse drivers stopped for minor road traffic offences - not just those involved in crashes.

Until now, the powers have only been used in a discretionary fashion.

The two-week campaign will urge people to continue to report those getting behind the wheel after drinking.

If caught, motorists face an automatic ban of at least 12 months, the risk of a £5,000 fine and six months in prison.

"People who drink and then get behind the wheel will be caught"
Chief Constable John Vine
Acpos


The Summer Drink/Drugs Driving campaign is set to be launched on Monday by the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (Acpos).

Chief Constable John Vine, chair of Acpos road policing, said: "We are determined that people who drink and then get behind the wheel will be caught and dealt with accordingly.

"Drivers need to be aware that even if they are stopped for a minor road traffic offence, such as a defective light or tyre, they are likely to be breathalysed."

Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said: "I fully support the police in their efforts to ensure that there is nowhere for them (drink-drivers) to hide."



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Related to this story:
Festive drink driving on the rise (04 Jan 07 |  Scotland )
Drink drive figures show increase (27 Dec 06 |  Scotland )

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