DRIVERS caught using their mobile phones could have them confiscated under plans being pursued by Merseyside Police.
Senior officers are looking into the legality of seizing handsets from offending motorists.
Southport neighbourhood Inspector Martin Woosey revealed Merseyside Police Chief Constable Bernard Hogan-Howe has asked officers to investigate whether they are legally allowed to seize motorists' handsets.
Officers believe the prospect of losing an expensive phone might prove to have the effect of changing people's habits for good.
Currently, people caught talking and driving get a fixed penalty notice.
That will change to a fine and points this month. The investigation was revealed during a community meeting in Southport, after a member of the public asked: "Why can't you just take their mobile phones off them?"
Insp Woosey said: "It's an excellent idea which has been raised and the Chief Constable has asked for research to be conducted to make sure we've got powers to confiscate the phones.
"I don't know whether we have got the power, I think we do, but the Chief has asked for a definite answer."
At present, the law prohibits drivers from using mobiles, with consequences ranging from a £30 fixed penalty notice to a £1,000 fine if it goes to court. This rises to £2,500 if driving a goods vehicle or passenger-carrying vehicle with nine or more seats.
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