§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will outline the legislation under which police with adequate identification can request a breath test.
§ Mr. Peter LloydThe police powers to require breath tests are contained in the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Under section 163 a police constable in uniform has the power to stop any vehicle; and under section 6 to require a breath test:
- (a) where there is reasonable cause to suspect that the driver has alcohol in his body; or
- (b) where there is reasonable cause to suspect that the driver has committed a moving traffic offence; or
- (c) where there is reasonable cause to believe that the driver has been involved in an accident.