Anyone found to be driving when over the set limit will be penalised in the hope it will deter drivers from drink driving and make roads safer.

The move comes as the number of road accidents continues to rise despite a press campaign highlighting the dangers of drink driving.

Existing road safety laws will also be reinforced in a major crackdown by the government.

A government spokesman announcing the plans said as yet it was unknown what the blood alcohol limit would be or how it would be tested.

Greater responsibility

The Home Office and police will enforce the new law when it is revealed in the Road Safety Bill expected next year.

The move is part of the government's campaign to make people to take more care on the roads and look out for themselves, other drivers and pedestrians.

"I think we are all of us conscious of the need to strengthen enforcement if this is possible at all" the government spokesman said.

"What is most desirable is that more and more people exercise greater responsibility in the use of our roads" he added.

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