I SHOULD be interested to know readers' views on a matter that will be on the agenda of the European Parliament during the coming months.

Last week the parliament voted by a reasonable majority to ask the Commission to bring forward a directive for a harmonised Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of no more than 0.5 mg/ml - the limit in Britain and certain other EU countries is now higher at 0.8 mg/ml, so we would have to change. I voted for this proposal on straightforward safety grounds.

Total harmonisation of BAC levels across the EU would provide a clearer, more consistent message to drivers of drink drive dangers. Different levels in different member states are potentially confusing and weaken the message that drink driving is dangerous. Experts estimate this could save up to 1,000 lives a year, not to mention the devastation caused to the families of those killed in accidents.

Some MEPs felt this is a matter strictly for national governments and that Europe should not interfere. Yet on the same day we voted without a second thought, on a directive to protect wildlife habitats across Europe. Protecting human life is more important than protecting wildlife habitats.

If we encourage our citizens to travel across Europe we should be prepared to legislate for their safety. What do your readers think? Please e-mail me via my website: www.dianawallismep.org.uk, or write to me at the address below.

Diana Wallis MEP,

Land of Green Ginger,

Hull HU1 2EA.

Updated: 11:29 Wednesday, February 14, 2001