NORTH-EAST police chiefs have welcomed new powers which come into force in selected areas of the region today allowing officers to drug test people arrested for certain offences.

The new measures are part of the Drugs Act 2005 and will be used in those police areas with the highest rates of drug-related crime - Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool Newcastle, Sunderland and Gateshead.

For the first time, drug- misusing offenders will be tested for heroin, crack and cocaine on arrest for offences, such as street robbery and burglary.

Those who test positive will be required to attend a compulsory drug assessment, even if they are not charged.

The assessment, carried out by specialist drug workers, will aim to determine the extent of their drug problem and help them into treatment and other support.

Those who fail to provide a sample, or comply with a required assessment, face a fine of up to £2,500 and, or up to three months in prison.

Inspector Kath Barber, of Cleveland Police, said last night: "At present, if someone is charged they are drug tested. The information is used to try and get them on to voluntary drug treatment scheme.

"This will now will increase the numbers referred for drug treatment by threefold, because we tend to charge only a third of the people we arrest.

"Anyone testing positive will be compelled to have an assessment with a treatment officer - and it takes the voluntary element away.

"It will be a very powerful tool in our fight against crime."

At the same time, restriction on bail is also being introduced across the whole of England today.

These powers, which have been operating in Newcastle since January 2005 and in Hartlepool since April 2005, require drug users to engage in drug treatment as part of their bail conditions.

Courts are able to deny bail unless the offender agrees to a drug assessment - if one has not already taken place - and any recommended follow-up treatment or support.

Tony Regan, Home Office regional director, said: "Acquisitive crime is falling across the North-East, largely as a result of this programme, and these new measures will help us to reduce it even further."