Drunken offenders' driving licences could be seized

Drunken offenders could lose their driving licences under a scheme being considered by the Government.

Drunken offenders could lose their driving licences under a scheme being considered by the Government.

Anyone who commits violence, vandalism or public disorder offences could face the new sanction - as well as fines and possible imprisonment.

Ministers believe that for young people with relatively high disposable incomes, fines provide less of deterrent than a "lifestyle sentence" such as a driving ban, or possibly a ban from licensed premises.

The Criminal Sentences Act 1997 already includes powers for courts to disqualify offenders from driving as a punishment for a wide range of offences.

The power has been used on a trial basis in some parts of the country, with considerable success.

Any decision to expand the use of such powers nationwide would require ministerial approval and an order in Parliament.

The Prime Minister is believed to be keen to see the idea spread to the whole country.