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Parliamentary group chaired by Chatham MP Tracey Crouch calls for alcohol clampdown

Motorists could be banned from getting behind the wheel after just a single pint under new rules proposed by MPs.

The All Parliamentary Group on Alcohol Misuse, which is chaired by Chatham and Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch, is calling for the tightening of drink-rive rules as part of a raft of measures to combat alcohol related issues.

The group is launching its manifesto this week and wants the drink-drive limit in blood, which currently stands at 80 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres, 50mg per 100ml.

Mark Buery blew most of his compensation payout on drink and drugs
Mark Buery blew most of his compensation payout on drink and drugs

It means a single pint of strong lager or a large glass of wine could push a driver over the limit.

Members are also called for cigarette-style health warnings on wine bottles and the strengthening of rules around advertising to raise awareness of the dangers of excessive drinking and the growing problem of liver disease.

The manifesto being unveiled in the ­Commons today, together with figures ­showing alcohol-related harm costs £21billion a year, including hospital admissions and drink-related crime. Alcohol is linked to one death every hour.

Tracey Crouch, MP for Chatham and Aylesford
Tracey Crouch, MP for Chatham and Aylesford

Miss Crouch said: "We have one of the highest alcohol driving limits in the world.

"We have seen drink-driving accidents increase over the past two years and we want to start by targeting younger drivers who are more likely to be involved in a fatal collision than older drivers."

The group wants to introduce the measures to younger drivers and if successful, want to see it rolled out universally to all motorists.

Miss Crouch added: "This is not about hitting those who drink responsibly, but ­dealing with genuine misusers. We are not asking people to be teetotal. We want those who are vulnerable to be protected.

"Successive governments have tried to encourage responsible ­drinking, but it is debatable how ­effective they have been."

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