Police drivers will be given the green light to pursue moped gangs even if they are not wearing helmets, under proposed changes to the law.

Confusion over the existing rules means many officers are reluctant to give chase to criminals, fearing that they will be hauled over the coals if the rider is injured or killed.

It has seen moped gangs, who have been responsible for a recent wave in street violence and robberies, emboldened, believing they can make an easy getaway by simply removing their helmets.

But the Home Office has said it wants to “smash the myth” and give police officers the confidence to give chase knowing they will not be held responsible for the actions of the criminal.