Police chiefs urge mandatory alcolocks for high-risk drink-drivers

Police chiefs, crime commissioners, and road safety organisations have issued an open letter calling for the mandatory introduction of ‘alcolocks’ for high-risk and repeat drink-drivers. These devices are breathalysers connected to a vehicle’s ignition system that prevent the engine from starting if alcohol levels above a specific limit are detected.

The proposal, supported by the RAC, seeks to grant courts the power to mandate alcohol interlocks as a condition for offenders returning to the road. Currently, UK law does not allow courts to require these devices for convicted offenders.

Advocates are urging the government to include an alcolock scheme in its forthcoming response to the motoring offences consultation, noting that previous deadlines for the Road Safety Strategy consultation have passed.