A penalty point system and a driving limit of 30kph in residential areas could be introduced if MEPs get their way and have traffic regulations harmonised across the EU.

The European Parliament wants to introduce stricter rules in all member states to cut the number of road accidents by half in 10 years’ time.

The EP’s resolution approved yesterday calls for stricter measures against abusive drivers and a points system instead of fines.

Among the controversial proposals, which may be taken up by the European Commission in its draft legislation, MEPs are recommending an EU-wide speed limit of 30kph in all urban areas and that road signs and rules be harmonised across the bloc. Malta only adopts a points system in the case of new drivers, when a new driving licence holder is given a temporary licence for three years and has to keep within a limit of 12 points to qualify for a permanent one.

Other proposals include enabling young people to learn how to drive more gradually while strictly accompanied; the introduction of compulsory eye tests every 10 years; eye tests every five years for those over 65; and a ban on devices that warn of cameras ahead.

German MEP Dieter-Lebrecht Koch, who acted as the EP’s rapporteur on this dossier, said a “zero death toll” should be the aim in the long run.