A new roadside test could be used by police as part of a Christmas and New Year crackdown on drug driving, a home officer minister has indicated.

Policing minister Mike Penning said motorists pulled over will not know whether they will be breathalysed, “drugalysed” or both.

The new drug-testing kits approved by the Home Office will analyse samples of saliva instantly to detect for both illegal narcotics and legal highs.

The Sunday Telegraph said police will also use the kits to catch drivers who have taken prescription medicines, including strong painkillers, sleeping pills and drugs to treat anxiety, that can impair their ability to concentrate on the road.

Penning said the “drugalyser” kits were approved by officials last week for use in prosecuting motorists who drive while impaired by a range of illegal and prescription drugs.

UKJ wrote:The Sunday Telegraph said police will also use the kits to catch drivers who have taken prescription medicines, including strong painkillers, sleeping pills and drugs to treat anxiety, that can impair their ability to concentrate on the road

That probably covers most drivers. Between that, and bus lane cameras, bus gates, traffic light cams, average speed cams , traffic calming which causes jams, and police stops, driving is a chore now.