HC Deb 16 January 1978 vol 942 cc77-8W
Mr. McCusker

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many breathalyser tests were given by the Royal Ulster Constabulary between 23rd December 1977 and 3rd January 1978; and how many of these have resulted in drivers being charged with drunken driving.

Mr. Dunn

Information in respect of the period 23rd December to 3rd January is not readily available. However, as a consequence of a special exercise undertaken by the RUC Traffic Division over Christmas, figures are available for the period 23rd December to 27th December. In this period approximately 5,000 vehicles were stopped by the police operating accident prevention units, and 71 of the drivers interviewed were required to take breath tests. 35 of these were found to have consumed alcohol in excess of the prescribed limit and were charged accordingly.