The government is considering introducing a new criminal offence in Northern Ireland to combat the problem of so-called joyriding.

The offence of aggravated vehicle taking could carry a tougher maximum sentence than the current charges brought against those accused of car crime.

It comes as part of a comprehensive review of the laws dealing with car crime in the province.

Aggravated vehicle taking is already an offence in England and Wales.

The Home Office has said it intends to raise the maximum sentence for causing death by aggravated vehicle taking to 14 years.

That is four years more than the current maximum sentence which can be imposed on those found guilty of causing death by reckless driving in Northern Ireland.

A formal consultation process will begin soon and is expected to last for up to four months.

Officials will start working on the detail of any new car crime legislation as soon as that is completed.

The move has been welcomed by the group Families Bereaved Through Car Crime, which has won widespread support for its campaign in recent months for tougher sentences for those found guilty of causing injury or death whilst driving stolen cars.

In September, a memorial to victims of car crime was unveiled in west Belfast amid calls for tougher sentencing for so-called joyriders.

The granite monument at Teeling roundabout in Poleglass is a tribute to the 48 people who have lost their lives through car crime in the past 30 years.

It was unveiled by Margaret Muir whose brother, Patrick Hanna, was killed after being struck by a stolen car three years ago.