The ban on using mobile phones behind the wheel may be eased in order to let drivers use automatic parking systems, the government has said.

Under present legislation, motorists who park their vehicles by using a fob or a mobile phone could face a fine - according to a government study called "Remote Control Parking and Motorway Assist: Proposals for Amending Regulations and the Highway Code".

Many expensive cars feature remote control parking. However, the government wants the technology harnessed to "revolutionise" driving for everybody.

Those who might benefit from an easing of rules include those with small garages, those faced with small parking places and, perhaps most of all, those with reduced mobility.

The average motorist spends an astonishing 106 days of their lives searching for somewhere to park, according to research cited by the Department for Transport.

As the laws stands, a mobile phone can only be used to contact the emergency services - and only then if it is not practical or safe to park the car and call.

Remote control parking initiated by "hand held" devices should be examined, according to the consultation paper.

It is generally accepted that remote control parking should only be carried out once the operator is 6m from the vehicle - unless they are inside.

The paper suggests augmenting The Highway Code with a new rule, which might read "You can park your vehicle via remote control, using a legally compliant parking application or device in an appropriate way which does not endanger others.""

Advanced driver assistance technology is also supported by the paper. These systems can control a vehicle's position and speed as it travels.

Transport Minister Jesse Norman said: "The government is determined that Britain should lead the way in embracing the safe deployment of new vehicle technology.

"Features such as remote-control parking and motorway assist have the potential to transform car travel, adding greater convenience and accessibility to drivers, so that they can park and drive with more confidence."