Tougher penalties have been introduced that will apply to anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving.

From February 27 the new fine will be £60 and three points on the driving licence.

Len Turner, manager of the West Wiltshire Economic Partnership, is urging drivers to heed the restrictions and warns it is not just the driver who will be liable. "Employers may also face prosecution if they permit or cause employees to use their phones while driving.

"Penalties will also apply to the use of handsfree sets if the driver fails to maintain proper control of the vehicle. Here again the employer could be at risk if the call is work related," said Mr Turner.

Smokefree legislation is also set to come into effect. From 6am on July 1, 2007 smoking will be banned in all enclosed workplaces and public places.

While most people appreciate the law will affect smokers in pubs and clubs, it will also apply to:

  • All business premises - including workshops, factories, shops and offices
  • Multi-occupied and shared housing
  • Any enclosed public place - shopping malls, covered footbridges etc
  • All public service vehicles - buses, taxis etc
  • All works vehicles used by more than one person in connection with their business or employment - pool cars, works vans etc Smokefree England, the Government body overseeing the legislation's introduction, is directly mailing businesses to advise of the new requirements.

West Wiltshire District Council will be the local authority responsible for enforcing the law.