Drivers caught using their mobile phones behind the wheel are set to face fines of up to £1,000.

Using a mobile telephone without a special hands free kit becomes a specific offence for which a £30 spot fine will be payable.

The penalties, which came into effect on December 1, can be increased to up to £1,000 for cases brought to court.

The government also intends to change the law so that mobile phone use could lead to drivers receiving three points on their driving licence.

Ministers hope the new penalties will act as a disincentive phone use while driving.

They will also renew their push to educate motorists of the dangers of taking or making a call whilst behind the steering wheel.

According to research drivers using a mobile phone are four times more likely to have an accident.

Our decision to introduce this new offence will make the roads safer for us all," David Jamieson said at the time of the initial announcement.

"Missing a call won't kill you - an accident quite possibly could."

Government research found that 88 per cent of respondents to a survey were in favour of the fines.