In May 2018, we consulted on the law, guidance and practice surrounding police driving in England, Wales and Scotland. We sought views from groups representing road users, police officers, forces and other related organisations to harness their knowledge and expertise.

We would like to extend our thanks to all those whom responded to the consultation. The consultation received over 380 responses from individuals and organisations from across the UK, including 222 responses from police officers, forces and other related organisations.

In addition, during and since the consultation period, we have also continued to work with the Independent Office for Police Conduct, the Crown Prosecution Service, the Police Federation, the National Police Chiefs Council and others in order to refine our proposals.

We have considered the responses to the consultation and believe there is consensus on the need to make some changes to ensure the police drivers are given the tools to do their jobs, while maintaining road safety.

The government will look to introduce a new test to assess the standard of driving of a police officer. This new test will compare the standard of driving against that of a careful, competent and suitably trained police driver in the same role rather than use the existing test which compares driving against a standard qualified driver who would not normally be involved in police action.

The government has also decided to examine how to: