HC Deb 07 March 1973 vol 852 cc386-7
7. Mr. McCrindle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will consider setting up an inquiry into the workings of the law on breathalyser tests, in view of the anomalies shown by recent cases.

Mr. Peyton

No, Sir.

Mr. McCrindle

Has not it become clear that the procedure through which the police have to go is proving excessively complicated? Has my right hon. Friend noticed the large number of acquittals in recent months, largely on technical grounds? Does not he feel that an inquiry would be of some advantage to the community even if it took into account only the possibility of introducing random breath tests?

Mr. Peyton

I shall consider the matter which my hon. Friend has raised, though questions of police enforcement are more for my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.

Dr. Glyn

When my right hon. Friend is considering these matters, will he consider whether some other form of test might also be used, such as that which existed before the breathalyser, where people are tested for their efficiency in carrying out certain functions? Is my right hon. Friend aware that the level of alcohol in the blood shown by a breathalyser will vary considerably from individual to individual?

Mr. Peyton

I take due note of what my hon. Friend says, backed by his expert knowledge.