§ Mr. Moneyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied with the accuracy of performance of the Alcotest 80 breathalyser at present used by police forces; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. SharpiesThe device was thorough tested before it was approved. My right hon. Friend considers that in practice it has proved satisfactory for its purpose, which is to enable the police to distinguish the category of driver from whom it is reasonable to demand a sample of blood or urine for laboratory analysis.
§ Mr. Moneyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will take steps to develop a British manufactured breathalyser for use under the Road Traffic Act 1967.
Mr. SharpiesIt is open to a manufacturer at any time to submit a breath-testing device for my right hon. Friend's approval, which will be given to any device that reaches a satisfactory standard.