Drink driving on rise among the young

Latest police figures show that drink driving is on the rise among UK motorists under the age of 25.

The statistics show that the proportion of young drivers testing positive or simply refusing to take the test at all rose by 15% over the last 12 months.

The rise has coincided with a cut in government spending on anti-drink drive campaigns, which was slashed from £3.4 million in 2009-10 to just £550,000 in the current financial year.

The news has caused alarm among ministers and road safety groups.

“The percentage rise in the number of people caught drink-driving is very concerning – particularly among younger drivers,” said John Franklin, an RAC spokesman.

“This confirms the worrying statistics in this year’s RAC Report on Motoring which found that 23% of drivers under the age of 25 had driven when they suspected they were over the limit. This compares with the figure of 16% for all drivers – which is another worrying statistic.

“The fear is that these figures are showing that the cuts in government road safety campaigns are causing more drivers to risk driving under the influence.

“The dangers of drink-driving needs to be continually spelt out by government in order to prevent a generation from thinking it’s acceptable.”

However, Mike Penning MP, the road safety minister, said the figures showed that police were working more effectively.

“The results of the police summer enforcement campaign suggests by targeting resources more effectively, police forces are tackling those who are most likely to drive over the limit.”

He added: “It is vital that we spend taxpayers’ money where it can make the most difference. That is why we continue to run Christmas drink drive campaigns targeted at those groups who are most likely to offend.”