Thames Valley Police is “limiting use” of some of its vehicles following reports that officers in other forces have been banned from chasing suspects at high speeds in them.

The force says it is taking “urgent steps” to limit how much some of the vehicles in its fleet are being used for safety reasons.

It comes following reports that police elsewhere in the UK are being told not to pursue criminals at high speeds in their high-powered BMW vehicles.

The Northern Echo reported that forces up and down the country have reportedly advised officers to avoid pushing the cars, and not exceed the speed limit, over safety fears.

READ MORE: Police officer who broke woman’s arm may have used ‘excessive force’

Thames Valley Police confirmed that some vehicles in its fleet are affected, but has reassured the public that it is maintaining its capability to pursue criminals and police the roads across the Thames Valley.

Chief Superintendent Darren O'Callaghan said: “We are aware there may be an issue with some older vehicles in our fleet and have taken urgent steps to ensure this is addressed, including offering guidance to officers, and we have taken the precautionary measure to limit the use of those vehicles.

“We are continuing to monitor this issue on a daily basis and adapt our approach to the information available, working alongside the National Police Chiefs Council. Our priority at this time is to ensure the safety and the long-term integrity of the equipment our officers use.

“We want to reassure you that we have plans in place to ensure this will not affect our ability to respond to incidents or the service we provide to our communities.

“The mitigations we have put in place aim to maintain our capability to pursue criminals and keep our roads safe.”

READ MORE: Drug dealer caught selling cocaine in front of police officers is jailed

The issue is known to be affecting vehicles in police forces across the UK, and according to reports, some police chiefs have introduced a “no pursuit policy” for officers driving these vehicles.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead on police driving, Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods, said:“We are aware there may be an issue with some older vehicles in our fleet and we are taking urgent steps to ensure this is addressed, including offering guidance to forces.

“Chiefs are working with the National Association of Police Fleet Managers to examine any risks.

“Our priority at this time is to ensure the safety and the long-term integrity of the equipment our officers use.”