TOUGHER laws need to be introduced to bust the myth that the use of hands-free mobile phone systems in cars is safe, a leading road safety organisation claims.

IAM RoadSmart says the time has come to ensure all drivers are fully aware of the risks of multi-tasking at the wheel.

In response to a Government report which said that ‘using a mobile phone while driving is dangerous, with potentially catastrophic consequences', IAM RoadSmart said there needs to be much stricter controls on the use of hands-free mobile phones in cars - and they remain a major distraction to the task of driving.

However, the charity said that it cannot see how any ban can be enforced, with a lack of police numbers meaning drivers feel they will not get caught.

Official statistics show that in 2017 there were 773 casualties, including 43 deaths and 135 serious injuries, in collisions where a driver using a mobile phone was a contributory factor.

The figures show that the number of people killed or seriously injured has risen steadily since 2011, however alarmingly the rate of enforcement has dropped by more than two-thirds since then.

Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and research, said: "IAM RoadSmart strongly welcomed the House of Commons Transport Committee report as it fully confirms what we have known for some time - multi tasking is a myth and any form of smartphone use at the wheel is distracting.

"Clarifying the law so that any use of a phone that involves holding it or placing in the driver's lap is made illegal should be a top government priority. It doesn't matter if it's for music selection or social media updates, it all increases risk behind the wheel particularly for new drivers.

"New laws and tougher penalties are welcome but will only work if the fear of being caught is increased. This can be done through more high-profile policing but could also given an immediate boost by issuing clear guidelines for the use of mobile speed cameras to prosecute any driver they spot with a phone to their ear.

"The final piece in the jigsaw for IAM RoadSmart would be a revamping of the mobile phone awareness course with every first offender being sent on one to see and feel the real impact of their behaviour."

Two years ago, motorists caught using a hand-held phone have faced a punishment of six points on their licence and a £200 fine - a doubling of the previous penalty.