Last updated 12:20, Monday, 14 July 2008

THE European Union is looking to make traffic regulations the same across all 27 member states.

Motorists who commit road traffic offences abroad may no longer be able to get away with it scot-free.

Brian Simpson, one of north west England’s MEPs and Labour transport spokesman, wants a driving ban in one country to be applied in all.

There are also proposals to harmonise permissible levels of alcohol in blood, seat belt requirements, speed limits and use of mobile phones.

Speaking in the European Parliament in Brussels, Mr Simpson said: “As it stands, if you get a parking or speeding ticket when abroad, you can avoid paying it when you return home, and frankly I think that is wrong.”

There are also problems for cities where congestion charges are in force.

“Our police service enforces its right to expect all foreigners to pay our charges and fines, so it’s right that the British also pay when abroad,” said Mr Simpson. “Over 40,000 people die each year on Europe’s roads which is a death toll that requires action.”