The Labour government under Keir Starmer has abandoned a proposed road safety measure that would have required alcohol interlock devices, known as alcolocks, to be fitted in vehicles. The decision follows a public consultation on a new Road Safety Strategy, where a majority of respondents opposed the mandate.
What Are Alcolocks and Why Were They Considered?
Alcolocks are breathalyser devices wired directly to a car's ignition system. They prevent a vehicle from starting if the driver's breath alcohol level exceeds the legal limit. The devices were proposed for installation in vehicles of individuals with a history of drink-driving offences. Campaigners argued that alcolocks could significantly enhance road safety by preventing repeat offences.
Government Consultation Outcome
The Department for Transport opened the consultation earlier this year, promising to evaluate the potential benefits of alcolocks. However, officials have now rejected the widespread introduction of the tool. According to the government, a majority of consultation respondents were against the plan. Some argued that alcolocks were a lower priority compared to other vehicle safety technologies, while others raised concerns about costs and implementation challenges.
The Department for Transport stated: “The government will not mandate AIIF as part of this package of GB type approval changes. It believes it is proportionate to proceed with the broader package without delay, given that the benefits of the measure would depend on a more comprehensive policy framework for alcohol interlocks in GB. The government also recognises the possibility of future use.” This leaves the door open for potential future consideration.
RAC Criticises Decision as Missed Opportunity
The RAC has strongly criticised the government's decision. A previous RAC study found that 53% of motorists believe alcolocks could reduce instances of drink-driving on UK roads. Only 23% of the 1,763 drivers polled thought the devices would not be effective.
RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “It's disappointing it's decided that alcolock interfaces shouldn’t have to be fitted to vehicles as standard. It feels like an opportunity missed as it would have made it easier to fit alcolocks to the vehicles of repeat offenders in future.” He added: “This is not about alcolocks being fitted to all vehicles, it's about making it easier to get these devices put in the vehicles of repeat drink-drive offenders so they can't get behind the wheel drunk again. RAC research shows there is strong support among drivers for alcolocks being used in this way.”
Impact and Future Prospects
The abandonment of the alcolock mandate is a setback for road safety campaigners who have long advocated for such measures. While the government has not ruled out revisiting the idea, no timeline has been provided. The decision aligns with Labour's broader approach to road safety, which has faced criticism from some quarters. The RAC's polling indicates significant public support for alcolocks, suggesting the issue may resurface in future policy debates.
