NEW legislation is to be introduced to clamp down on drug-driving.

The tougher drug-driving limits and roadside testing will target motorists across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire who endanger others while under the influence of illegal substances.

Tightening the law will allow prosecutions where different drug types are detected above specified levels.

And, under the new curbs, there will be no requirement to prove that someone was driving in an impaired manner.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “While it is a long-standing offence to drive while impaired by drugs.

“By introducing new drug-driving limits and roadside testing for the presence of drugs we will strengthen the ability of our police and prosecutors to tackle the minority of drivers who recklessly put other road users and themselves at risk.

“Under the new offence, evidence of impaired driving will not be required, with our law enforcement agencies instead able to investigate and prosecute on the basis of a driver being above the specified limits for individual drug types.

“Subject to Parliament’s agreement and once the new regime is in force, Scotland will be at the forefront of efforts across the UK to tackle drivers who either drink or take drugs – with both the lowest drink-drive limit operating in these islands and drug-driving limits in place.”

Ministers will seek approval from MSPs later this year, with the intention of the new legislation being introduced in 2019.

The introduction of drug-drive limits was among a number of recommendations by Sir Peter North QC in his independent report commissioned by the UK Government.

Under current laws, it is an offence to be in charge of a motor vehicle while unfit to drive through drink or drugs, with the penalties bringing a minimum 12-month driving ban, up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.

Once in force, the new offence of driving while above specified drug limits will operate alongside drink-driving laws and carry the same maximum penalties.