Written question asked by Baroness Jowell (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 February 1997. It was answered by John Bowis (Conservative) on Monday, 24 February 1997 on behalf of the Department of Transport.

Dept of Transport

Question: What steps his Department is taking to make information available to motorists on the effect that (a) prescribed and (b) non-prescribed drugs may have on their driving capability. - Inc ref to 'Highway Code'.

Answer: Ms Jowell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps his Department is taking to make information available to motorists on the effect that (a) prescribed and (b) non-prescribed drugs may have on their driving capability. [16930] Mr. Bowis: We give advice under the `Highway Code' which states: "You MUST NOT drive under the influence of drugs or medicines. When taking prescribed medicines, ask your doctor if it is safe to drive. When taking other medicines, ask a pharmacist". Drivers should heed the advice of their doctor or pharmacist and comply with the information provided by the drug company. The packaging of all prescription drugs which affect the central nervous system is required by law to carry warnings advising patients not to drive. For non-prescribed drugs, the only products likely to affect driving capability in recommended doses are anti-histamines and the packaging is labelled accordingly in these cases. We shall consider any further action in the light of findings from the survey of drugs in road fatalities that we are currently undertaking.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 16930; 291 c48W
Session: 1996-97
Subjects: Accidents Driving Drugs Prescription drugs Safety Roads Side effects