The Government, led by Andy Burnham, has published detailed plans to lower the drink-drive limit in England from 35 micrograms to 22 micrograms per 100 millilitres of blood. The reduction, confirmed in the Government's road safety strategy, brings England in line with Scotland, where the lower threshold has been in force since 2014.
Under the new rules, drivers will reach the legal alcohol limit much more quickly after consuming alcohol. Officials have warned that anyone planning to get behind the wheel will need to bear this in mind, with police expected to encourage people not to drive at all if they have been drinking.
Limit Highest in Europe for Over 50 Years
The road safety strategy notes that the current limit is the highest in Europe and has not been changed since it was introduced in 1969. The document states: "The current limit (i.e. the legal maximum level of alcohol in the bloodstream on testing) is the highest in Europe and (in England and Wales) has not changed since it was introduced in 1969."
The strategy also highlights the continued toll of drink-driving, pointing out that in 2023, 1 in 6 fatalities were in drink-drive collisions. Officials say too many people are still being killed in such crashes, prompting the need for stricter measures.
Additional Road Safety Measures Proposed
The road safety strategy includes other proposed measures alongside the drink-drive limit reduction. These include mandatory eyesight tests for drivers over the age of 70 and the introduction of penalty points for seatbelt offences.
The plans form part of a broader effort by the Government to address road safety issues across England. The changes are expected to be implemented following the publication of the strategy, with further details on enforcement and timelines to be announced.
