The number of positive or refused tests was down by 9 percent from 1997 to 94,700 in 1998. The proportion of tests positive or refused was 12 percent of screening tests in 1998, one percentage point less than the level in 1997. Nearly one-fifth of screening tests were carried out in December. During that month, the proportion of tests positive or refused was 6 percent, just under half the level in other months. Data are tabulated on screening breath tests and the number positive or refused by police force area. 10 notes, 4 tables, and 3 figures