The French National Assembly has voted through a law making it an offence to drive while under the influence of drugs.

Offenders will be liable to two years in jail and a fine of 4,500 euros.

The law - which now goes before the upper house or Senate at the end of the month - also authorises police to conduct random testing.

The new law was aimed mainly at smokers of cannabis, which is by far the most popular drug among young people.

The move, proposed by a right-wing member of the parliament, has the backing of the French Government. If follows a number of high-profile drug-linked accidents.

Alcohol limits

French drink-driving limits are set very low, but it has never been made a specific offence to drive while under the influence of drugs.

The right-wing government of President Jacques Chirac has pledged to reduce the high toll of deaths on French roads.

Last year 8,160 people were killed on French roads, compared with 3,580 in Britain.

Road accidents are the prime cause of death among young people under 30.

Campaigners say cannabis is playing a growing part in the problem.

According to a recent survey, nearly half of French 18-year-olds have tried cannabis at least once.

'Gimmick'

According to the MP who initiated the law, the consumption of drugs at least doubles the risk of accidents, and 20% of drivers under the age of 27 who are involved in accidents are under the influence of cannabis.

The opposition Socialist Party called on deputies to abstain in the vote, saying the measure was a gimmick, and that existing laws against drugs and dangerous driving should be more forcefully applied.

Critics say that if passed, the law will divert much needed funds from the fight against drink-driving, which is already a serious killer on French roads.

They also say that a better enforcement of existing laws, rather than new laws, is what is required to eradicate the problem.