Uninsured drivers are facing a crackdown after the introduction of the Serious Organised Crime Act, according to the Motor Insurers' Bureau.

The Act means that, for the first time, the MIB can actively supply police forces with information about suspected uninsured vehicles. The police will also be given the power to seize uninsured vehicles.

"Previously, we could only provide data to the police in response to specific enquiries," explained Ashton West, the MIB's chief executive. "However, the Act will enable us to direct police towards potentially uninsured vehicles after their policies have apparently expired.

"If vehicle owners have not taken out insurance cover, they will stand a far greater chance of being identified and prosecuted than ever before"

The UK has one of the highest levels of uninsured driving in Europe, which typically adds around £30 to the cost of premiums for honest motorists.

"We're committed to reducing the unacceptable numbers of uninsured vehicles on our roads," continued Mr West. "The new Act gives us a significant boost and is the beginning of a much more proactive and co-ordinated approach by the enforcement authorities."

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