In May 2018, we consulted on the law, guidance and practice
surrounding police driving in England, Wales and Scotland.
We sought views from groups representing road users, police
officers, forces and other related organisations to harness
their knowledge and expertise.
We would like to extend our thanks to all those whom
responded to the consultation. The consultation received
over 380 responses from individuals and organisations from
across the UK, including 222 responses from police
officers, forces and other related organisations.
In addition, during and since the consultation period, we
have also continued to work with the Independent Office for
Police Conduct, the Crown Prosecution Service, the Police
Federation, the National Police Chiefs Council and others
in order to refine our proposals.
We have considered the responses to the consultation and
believe there is consensus on the need to make some changes
to ensure the police drivers are given the tools to do
their jobs, while maintaining road safety.
The government will look to introduce a new test to assess
the standard of driving of a police officer. This new test
will compare the standard of driving against that of a
careful, competent and suitably trained police driver in
the same role rather than use the existing test which
compares driving against a standard qualified driver who
would not normally be involved in police action.
The government has also decided to examine how to:
- make clear police officers should not be regarded as
being accountable for the driving of a suspected criminal
who is attempting to avoid arrest by driving in a dangerous
manner, providing the pursuit is justified and
proportionate; and to
- review the existing emergency service exemptions to
traffic law to ensure they remain fit for purpose
