HC Deb 02 June 1937 vol 324 cc1011-2
54. Mr. Potts

asked the Minister of Transport, in the case of a male learner-driver who lodges with a supervising examiner (driving tests) an application to take the test specifically endorsed "application for test by a man tester," why such preference cannot be complied with; and whether he is prepared to introduce amending regulations that learner-drivers shall be given the option of male or female testers?

Mr. Burgin

To meet the convenience of candidates the examining staff has been widely distributed over the country, and the number of examiners at individual centres is too small to allow of the option suggested by the hon. Member.

Mr. Potts

What I want to know is whether an endorsed application for a test by either a male or a female tester, as the case may be, cannot be complied with, and why a person cannot be tested by one of his or her own sex, and not have a woman sent to test a man? Is the Minister aware that since this matter was published, I have had complaints from all over the nation, and that one need not go further than the "Daily Herald" or the "Daily MailWill the Minister look into this matter and see whether he can arrange that a man, if he makes an application to that effect, shall be tested by a man and not by a woman?

Mr. Burgin

I am certainly prepared to consider any such delectable matter, but for the reasons given in the answer, I do not think the option for which the hon. Member asks can be given.

Mr. Cassells

Is the Minister not aware that many women become somewhat nervous when a man is sitting beside them?

Mr. Potts

I beg to give notice that I intend to raise this matter on the Adjournment.

57. Mr. Cassells

asked the Minister of Transport whether, having regard to the new driving-licence laws which became operative on 1st June, it is intended that the licence of a person accompanying a learner must not only have existed for a period of two years, but must also not be subject to any court suspension at the time?

Mr. Burgin

Yes, Sir, the regulations require him to have a current licence and a person disqualified for holding a licence cannot satisfy that condition.