§ 55. Sir B. Jannerasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science whether he is aware that although some recent medical research has shown that some tranquilliser drugs can impair the ability to drive a motor vehicle, very little is known in this country about the influence of such drugs in this respect; and whether, in view of the fact that he is now proposing to alter the law so that it will in future be an offence to have taken drugs to such an extent as to impair the ability to drive properly, he will take steps to ensure that comprehensive research is undertaken with regard to the effect of tranquillisers and other drugs on driving.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethIt is already an offence to drive or to be in charge of a motor vehicle while under the influence of drink or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of exercising proper control of that vehicle.
The evidence does not suggest that the consumption of tranquilliser drugs is a significant factor in road accidents 129W in the United Kingdom. Research into the general pharmacology of these drugs is already being carried out and the possible need for research into the effect of tranquillisers and other drugs on driving will be borne in mind.