POLICE are developing a new type of roadside camera to trap tailgating motorists.

They believe that, unlike existing speed cameras, the device will be popular with drivers because it will combat one of the most dangerous activities on Britain's crowded roads.

The laser camera will measure the gaps between vehicles and record number plates so that offenders can be penalised.

Meredydd Hughes, of the Association of Chief Police Officers, also revealed that new technology to allow roadside drug-driving tests could be introduced soon.

It had not yet been decided whether tailgating cameras could be used on urban roads as well as motorways and dual carriageways, said Mr Hughes, who is Deputy Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police.

"We are developing technology to help the detection of this problem," he said.

"We have tested a laser-based camera system which has been used mainly in the Alpine tunnels and has the potential to detect incidents of close following."

Research published by car and van manufacturer Mercedes-Benz last month found that tailgating can contribute to making motorway driving as stressful as running a marathon.

Tailgating by other drivers made a motorist's heartbeat rise to 150-155 beats per minute - equivalent to a top athlete running the 26-mile race.

Officers who catch tailgating motorists can charge them with careless driving, or even with dangerous driving.

Mr Hughes revealed that a hand-held device to test for illegal drugs such as cannabis and cocaine could soon be introduced, but it might require a change in the law for the devices to be deployed by officers.