A Sussex MP has called for new laws to protect pedestrians after claiming three out of four people backed his controversial views on 4x4 vehicles.

Norman Baker, who represents Lewes, said he had been overwhelmed by support for his claim the vehicles "intimidated" other drivers and pedestrians.

The Liberal Democrat environment spokesman has now published a report making the case for a shake-up in the laws governing the sale and use of the vehicles.

His recommendations include encouraging manufacturers to market 4x4s responsibly and the mandatory display of environmental information signs in showrooms.

Mr Baker believes there should be higher taxes for vehicles that produce large amounts of carbon dioxide and a ban on the sale of bull-bars, the metal grids attached to the front of some 4x4s.

The foreword to his report says: "I decided to write this paper following the tremendous public response to an interview I gave on this matter. I received hundreds of letters, of which around 3 to 1 were in support."

Mr Baker's original comments, saying 4x4s should be banned from school runs and supermarket trips, provoked fury among drivers.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said the vehicles were becoming "a target for political opportunists".

Spokesman Al Clarke said: "First it was White Van Man, now it is off-road drivers. Only five per cent of the UK market is taken up by 4x4 vehicles. 4x4 drivers already pay more in road tax.

"The problem is you are penalising people who rely on them like rural farmers or people who live in the country."