Rebecca Sawyerv was killed in the hit-and-run

Chief Superintendent Bob Pattison is head of operational support with Northumbria Police.

He has been liaising closely with Wansbeck MP Denis Murphy who is campaigning for tougher sentences following the death of six-year-old Rebecca Sawyer.

She died when her family's car was hit by a man driving a stolen car in Ashington, Northumberland, on New Year's Eve 2002.

Ian Carr, 27, from Ashington, was sentenced to nine-and-a-half years in prison after admitting causing death by dangerous driving.

Carr had 89 previous convictions and had been banned from driving several times.

Ultimately it would be a matter for Parliament, but a maximum of life would not be inappropriate in my opinion Chief Superintendent Bob Pattison

Mr Pattison said he welcomed plans for tougher sentences but could not support calls for an offence of "motor manslaughter".

He called for a charge of "aggravated death by dangerous driving" be introduced.

Mr Pattison said: "The offence termed 'motor manslaughter' was used many years ago but was found not to work.

"This led to the offence of causing death by dangerous driving being introduced instead.

"The offence of manslaughter does still exist and in cases of causing death by dangerous driving the CPS always look to see whether there is enough evidence for a manslaughter charge."

'Increased powers'

Mr Pattison said a charge of aggravated death by dangerous driving would send out a "clear message" to people who should not be behind the wheel.

He added: "Aggravating factors could include driving whilst disqualified, failing to stop for police, driving under the influence of drink and drugs, having no insurance or driving a stolen vehicle, plus having previous convictions for similar offences.

"If this offence was created judges would then have increased sentencing powers, above that for standard death by dangerous driving offences.

"Ultimately it would be a matter for Parliament, but a maximum of life would not be inappropriate in my opinion."