Sussex Police today began a pioneering month-long experiment to try out new roadside drug tests on motorists.

Officers will be setting up testing sites across Sussex and they hope to carry out more than 1,200 stop checks using new drug testing devices. Drivers in Shoreham were today among the first in Britain to undergo the tests, which involve officers taking samples of either sweat or saliva. Sussex is one of just four forces across the country selected by the Government to take part in the study. The aim is to assess the accuracy, practicality and public reaction to the drug tests. Sussex Police have stressed that, because the technology is experimental, the tests will be voluntary and no prosecutions will result from positive tests. No personal details will be taken down, and the drug test kits will not be used in incidents where officers suspect driving under the influence or at accident scenes. Supt Jim Hammond, of Sussex Police traffic division, welcomed the opportunity of being involved in the trials. He said: "This is an important step in providing an effective screening device to deal with the problem of drug driving." Initial tests will be with a device called Drug Wipe, which uses a sample of sweat taken from the forehead or neck. In April, police will run another series of tests with a saliva device. After each test, the volunteer drivers will be asked to complete a short questionnaire about their thoughts on the procedure.

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