Durham's Police and Crime Commissioner has called on the government to lower the drink-driving limit.

Speaking at an event for the British Medical Association, PCC Joy Allen said the current limit was among 'the highest in the world'.

Ms Allen said: "Drivers drinking up to this limit are six times more likely to be killed in a crash.

"Let's be clear - there is no safe limit.

"Drinking alcohol impairs driving function at miniscule levels - the evidence is undisputable.

"It's time to take the data seriously and use the experiences of other nations who have successfully driven down collision rates by lowering the limit."

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The consensus of the BMA shows impairment in critical driving functions begins at low levels, with most subjects significantly impaired at just 0.05 per cent blood-alcohol content.

The current limit is 0.08 per cent.

Ms Allen's calls come in the same week a man was sentenced to 17 years in prison for causing death by dangerous driving, who was driving at 141mph and nearly three times over the legal limit when he crashed.

"Until we make it perfectly clear in law that alcohol and driving don't mix, then more needless lives will be lost on our roads," Ms Allen said.

A Department for Transport spokesperson said, "Drink-driving is selfish, puts everyone at risk and is against the law.

"We will work tirelessly to ensure that our roads are safe for all users and will consider proposals to achieve this as part of our commitment to publish a road safety strategy."