A DRUG-BUSTING team of Basingstoke traffic officers have been trained to spot the tell-tale signs of drug use.

It is hoped the six police officers, who are undergoing training at Hampshire Constabulary's Netley HQ, will help cut the number of people who drive while under the influence of drugs.

PC Nick Ellcome, who is co-ordinating the new scheme, said: "The Home Office has done some research and found that one in five people have tested positive for drugs."

A pilot of the new drugs test, run in Portsmouth, found that 30 out of 63 people stopped had taken drugs.

The testing procedure involves five tests to be performed on drivers, including asking them to walk in a straight line, to touch their nose with their finger and to stand on one leg.

Drivers can also be asked to take an eye pupil test.

"There is no reliable, affordable equipment so this is the best system," said PC Ellcome.

"It is not an offence to drive with drugs as long as the driver does not show any impairment. It is the impairment of judgement which makes driving dangerous."

He added: "Anyone who is stopped will be taken to their local police station and seen by the police sergeant. Then they will be asked to provide a sample of blood, which is sent off to the lab."

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, drivers could be prosecuted if their judgement has been impaired by drugs.

"The penalty is very similar to drink-driving. Those caught can expect disqualification.

"Repeat offenders and serious offenders could go to prison," said PC Ellcome.

All the officers selected for training will complete their course by the end of May and will undergo assessment during the following year.