Plans for a two-tier drink-driving system have been thrown out after strong public opposition.

The Road Traffic and Highways Bill had included a clause prescribing a lower legal alcohol limit for newly qualified drivers.

But Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne has decided to withdraw the clause following a public consultation.

Rushen MHK Quintin Gill, who was against the idea, is welcoming the minister's change of heart.

He says the change in legislation seemed unnecessary because of the small number of drink-drive offences by R-Plate drivers (first part of audio file):

Mr Gill claims there was an ulterior motive for attempting to introduce a different alcohol limit for newly qualified drivers (second part of audio file):