New research has highlighted considerable public backing for a tougher stance on drinking and driving for young and inexperienced motorists.

A poll of more than 2,000 UK adults carried out on behalf of insurance provider Direct Line revealed how more than one-third (36 per cent) of people would back a zero tolerance approach to the alcohol limit for all drivers, regardless of their age.

Meanwhile, 32 per cent stated they would like to see the implementation of a system that saw a reduced alcohol limit in effect for novice motorists.

The stance echoes systems already in place in several other major European nations, including Germany, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands, where a tiered approach to drink-driving laws means newer road users are given stricter rules to adhere to when it comes to the consumption of alcohol.

Gus Park, director of motor at Direct Line, said: "England, Wales and Northern Ireland boast one of the most permissive driver blood alcohol concentration limits in Europe, but there is widespread popular support for lowering this, especially for young and novice motorists.

"The fact that the majority of people aged 18 to 34 support a zero tolerance approach to drink driving … demonstrates a commitment by the younger generation themselves for tighter restrictions."

He added that with the Scottish government passing new legislation to reduce the alcohol limit for all road users in Scotland in December last year, it is now, more than likely, simply a matter of time before the rest of the UK follows suit.

Drink-driving remains a serious concern for the whole of the UK and drivers need to be aware of the risks they pose not only to themselves but to other road users and innocent members of the public when they get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol.