D.tec International welcomes the renewed focus on tackling drug driving, as highlighted by Andrew Snowden MP, in his recent oral question in Parliament and his post on X yesterday. His commitment to addressing this pressing issue is both commendable and timely, shining a much-needed spotlight on a crisis that continues to endanger and cost lives across the UK.
For over a decade, D.tec International has proudly partnered with the UK’s police forces, supplying DrugWipe kits that have identified and banned tens of thousands of drug drivers each year. Despite this significant contribution, drug driving remains a pervasive and escalating threat. It is estimated that drug driving causes as many deaths and serious injuries as drink driving, yet current measures are failing to keep pace with the scale of the problem.
Despite the persistent and fantastic work undertaken by front line police officers, the existing system, reliant on blood samples for laboratory confirmation after positive roadside tests, is slow and ineffective. Drivers often remain on the roads for up to six months before prosecution, with some reoffending multiple times during this period. Alarmingly, many offenders evade justice entirely.
Recent data underscores the severity of the issue, revealing that 33,020 drivers were convicted of drug driving multiple times in the 11 years up to July 2024. Among them, 3,431 were caught on four or more occasions, while 54 individuals were prosecuted at least ten times.
A proven solution already exists and has delivered transformative results in countries such as Australia and France. These nations have adopted a system where evidential saliva samples are taken at the roadside from drivers who fail an initial DrugWipe test. The saliva samples are processed in laboratories within days, allowing prosecutions to be completed in weeks rather than months. This approach has not only reduced the number of drug driving incidents but also acted as a strong deterrent, saving countless lives and reducing life-changing injuries.
The UK has the opportunity to follow this example, adopting a system that would bring swifter justice and greater safety to its roads. Furthermore, the financial benefits for police forces are undeniable, with estimates suggesting they could save £25 million annually by streamlining the process.
D.tec International Managing Director, Ean Lewin, commented “We remain committed to sharing our three decades of expertise in combating drug driving and working collaboratively with policymakers to implement this proven solution. We are deeply grateful to Andrew Snowden MP, whose dedication to road safety is evident in his efforts to elevate this critical issue both in Parliament and beyond.
The need for reform has never been clearer. By taking decisive action, we can create safer roads, save lives, and ensure justice is delivered swiftly and effectively. We stand ready to play our part in making this vision a reality”.
