Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson has visited Tayside traffic police to hear their views on the future shape of a new 10 year road safety strategy for Scotland.

Stevenson said that those on the front line of response could provide a unique insight into the tragedies being experienced by too many families across the country.

Stevenson, who also took part in a routine traffic patrol to experience at first hand the important work of traffic officers, said: “The police are the front line. They have to deal with the horrific consequences of lives being lost on Scotland's roads.

“Often first on the scene, they witness the needless tragedy, the heartache, and sadness. They witness the agony as they have to carry out that awful task of telling a family that a loved one has been lost.

“These police officers have a unique insight into road traffic accidents. It is an insight which could help us save lives.

“That is why I am here today, and that is why the Scottish Government is looking to develop a new 10 year road safety strategy for Scotland.

“Last week, we saw the Westminster Government consult on plans to change UK-wide legislation on driving and testing. I welcome that. Legislative change can deliver real improvements. But this Scottish Government will also do whatever it can within our own devolved powers to make that difference.”

Latest road accidents statistics showed that there were 314 deaths on Scotland's roads in 2006 - 10 per cent more than in 2005. There were also 14 more child deaths than in 2005.

Stevenson recently brought together an expert group on road safety from across Scotland. The group's remit is to give their views on how to improve road safety in Scotland. Their views will help inform the 10-year road safety strategy for Scotland.

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