A LIBERAL Democrat from north Wiltshire has called for tougher laws to reduce deaths on Wiltshire’s roads.

Dr Brian Mathew, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for North Wiltshire has helped introduce a Bill to strengthen penalties for drivers who injure or kill people.

Last year 389 people were killed because of dangerous driving in the UK and campaigners argue that sentences are too light and do not reflect the severity of offences.

Dr Mathew said: “Victims of criminal driving and their families must always have confidence that our legal system will deliver justice, but time and again they feel let down.

“I support the bill and hope we can finally begin to deliver the proper justice that campaigners have long called for.”

Dr Mathew joined forces with long term safer roads campaigner Greg Mulholland MP to introduce the Bill.

On Tuesday (12) Mr Mulholland proposed a range of measures that included lengthier sentences, a new definition of criminal driving, and amendments to bail conditions.

He also called for enhanced investigation standards by both the police and in courts, and improvements to the treatment of victims and their families.

Greg Mulholland MP said: “As a long term campaigner for safer roads I proposed the Criminal Driving Bill to support families whose lives have been affected by a reckless driver and who feel let down by our legal system.

“We will continue the campaign for tougher laws until proper justice is delivered.”

Alice Bailey, Campaigns and Communications Officer at road safety charity Brake, also added: “Brake is very pleased to see Dr Mathew helping to lead the Criminal Driving Bill and fight for victims of criminal driving and their families.

“We have long believed that our legal system gives them a raw deal and that’s why it is vital Parliament brings forward some much needed changes.”

The Bill went forward as a Ten Minute Rule Bill in the House of Commons and is now being looked at by the government.