THE Government wants the views of Hertfordshire residents on banning people from using hand-held mobile phones while driving.

The new proposal was announced by Road Safety Minister David Jamieson on Tuesday, August 20.

Research has shown drivers are four times more likely to have an accident when using a mobile telephone.

The consultation seeks views on the possible introduction of ban on hand-held phones and asks opinions on what, if any, exemptions might be needed.

Mr Jamieson said: "We know that driving a vehicle whilst using a hand-held phone is dangerous.

"Our recent advertising campaign has increased awareness of the dangers of this and the police already prosecute those irresponsible drivers who insist on using their mobiles.

"But there is still a core of motorists who are ignoring these warnings.

"We are therefore consulting widely on introducing a specific offence of driving whilst using a hand-held mobile phone.

"This should leave no-one in any doubt that we are serious about the dangers that this practice presents to drivers and all road users.

"We are keen to see contributions from as many people as possible to help decide the way forward."

August 20, 2002 17:30