Police driver law at risk of ‘being forgotten’

NEW legislation aimed at offering police drivers protection from unfair prosecution is in danger of being forgotten about warns Essex Police Federation Chairman Steve Taylor.

Current laws mean police drivers can be held liable for ‘dangerous driving’ – without considering the high level of specialised training they receive.

A new Private Members’ Bill, The Emergency Drivers Protection Bill, was due to be heard and debated by MPs last month.

It was pulled from the agenda at the last minute to supposedly allow for the completion of an ongoing review which will investigate ‘the law and best practice regarding police pursuits.’

The bill is scheduled to be debated now on 6th July, but Steve fears that it won’t get an airing then either.

“My understanding is that the Government withdrew its support of the bill back in March at the 11th hour,” he said.

“And that they will ask Sir Henry Billingham (who proposed the bill) to withdraw it.

“Everyone involved in driving this campaign is scrabbling around trying to find out why and hopefully what might be taking its place.

“The fact that this issue is being kicked down the road again is extremely concerning for everyone,” he added.

Steve is hoping that the bill will be replaced by new Government legislation and that that is the reason for this likely further delay.

“The Government really needs to explain to us what the issues are around the legislation or set out a timetable for the proposed changes and when they will come into force.

“How can we help them make this a more pressing matter is a question I would ask.”

He’s now calling on law makers and the Home Secretary and Police Ministers to work closely with the force towards getting the protection on the statute books.

“I want them to continue to engage with us,” he said.

“Let us understand their concerns, what the blockers are to getting this sensible piece of legislation in place.

“The PFEW and others have been incredibly patient and mature around all of this but there’s only so much members can put up with.

“I’ve written to all Essex MPs and have asked them to help us and we’re actively engaging with members to get their views too.

“I go to great lengths to stress we are not seeking a carte blanche protection from prosecution for police drivers. Far from it.

“What we’re striving to achieve is that police drivers are allowed to reference, in those unfortunate cases of them facing prosecution, that they have been suitably trained and demonstrate that the driver on the day in question was within the bounds of that training.

“That’s what we’re after,” he added.