Darien Fenton

Opposition Transport Safety spokesperson Darien Fenton says National could bring in a zero alcohol limit for drivers under 20 years if it adopted a bill introduced by Labour which is now languishing at Select Committee stage.

"If National is serious about the safety of our young drivers it could commit to Labour's bill and the zero alcohol limit could come into force much sooner," Darien Fenton said.

"Provisions under the Sale and Supply of Liquor and Liquor Enforcement Bill have already been consulted on but are awaiting the Government's next Sale of Liquor Bill following the recent Law Commission report on the issue.

"The proposed law is drafted and ready to go and Labour would support it being fast-tracked to make our roads safer.

"The bill would make it an offence for young people who do not have a full licence to drive with any alcohol at all in their blood."

Darien Fenton says she supports the Government's moves to increase access to driver education.

"An extensive programme of driver education for learner drivers and a driver licence testing regime will ensure young people have all the skills necessary to drive alone on our roads.

"Evidence suggests that some young drivers can cause problems well after they initially get their licence. Some youngsters can become over-confident after a short time behind the wheel and this may need to be addressed.

"Labour will support legislation to increase the driving age through to select committee which will enable MPs to hear evidence from those who believe it will help reduce the road toll as well as those who may be affected such as those who live rurally.

"But our offer stands open to National to support it to fast track legislation for a zero tolerance level for alcohol for under 20's.