§ Mr. DoddsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to promote legislation to increase maximum sentences for offences where motorists kill or injure others through reckless or dangerous driving. [115995]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyThe Northern Ireland Office published a consultation paper on road traffic penalties on 10 March of this year; the consultation period lasts three months and will end on 9 June 2003. In total, the paper makes some 25 recommendations dealing with various road traffic issues; among these are proposals to increase the maximum penalties for causing death or grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving or by careless driving while under the influence of alcohol from 10 to 14 years. A report of recommendations will be published in the autumn and legislation will follow when parliamentary time allows.