§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will consider increasing periods of driving disqualification and sentences available to the courts for those found guilty of driving motor vehicles with an alcohol content in their blood that exceeds the statutory limit.
§ Mr. JackThere is no upper limit on the length of disqualification that a court can impose for offences relating to driving while under the influence of alcohol. We have no present plans to change the existing penalties which permit courts to impose prison sentences of up to six months and fines of up to £5,000 thus giving the courts the powers to impose appropriate sentences on those convicted of driving with excess alcohol in the blood. For the offence of causing death by drink driving we have announced our intention to raise the maximum penalty from five to 10 years imprisonment as soon a suitable legislative opportunity is available.