WA Labor backs police chase ramming push

Police will be able to ram cars off the road to end particularly dangerous pursuits under a proposal backed by the West Australian opposition.

The WA Police Union wants officers to be allowed to use the technique, which is used in Canada, the US and Britain, but not in Australia.

WA Labor leader Mark McGowan told reporters on the sidelines of the union's conference on Monday the party would trial the method if it won power at the state election in March.

Mr McGowan said it should only be used when the offender being chased was threatening the lives of other road users and pedestrians, and when the officer had sought approval for the action.