Backing for call to confiscate phones from drivers who use them while behind the wheel

A man using his mobile phone while driving.

Police Constable Jayne Willetts, the Police Federation of England and Wales’s roads policing lead, said officers could seize mobiles or Sim cards as a deterrent.

One motoring group claimed such a “blunt and brutal” measure may be necessary to tackle the issue.

It is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving, with those falling foul of the rules facing penalty points and a fine.

Twenty-two people were killed and 99 seriously injured in accidents on Britain’s roads in 2015 where a motorist using a mobile was a contributory factor.

Calls for efforts to curb the practice have intensified in recent months following high-profile cases and research indicating it is widespread.

Speaking at a roads policing conference in Hinckley, Leicestershire, Pc Willetts said: “As technology is rapidly progressing, I fear our legislation is already behind the times.

“Is the seizure of mobile phones or their Sim cards - along with an education system - the way forward, combined with fines? I don’t know, but it’s a question worth asking.”

Readers took to the Mail’s Facebook page to have their say on the issue.

Rachel Johnson wrote: “Excellent. But would be much better if they took there driving licences off them.”

Stephen Wood added: “Not harsh enough lock the user up for 24 hours.”

Angie Smith wrote: “Good. I think this is a great idea.”

John Bradshaw said: “The gentle approaches haven’t worked so bring it on.”

Evelyn Gale wrote: “No not harsh enough ban them from driving as well. Life is more important than a phone.”

Kevin Johnston added: “How about bring out a law what will stop people. Anyone caught driving on phone gets an instant ban.”

And Amanda Crumplin added: “Totally agree but easy replaced. Take the car and a total ban.”