27. Mr. Rathboneasked the Minister of Transport how many districts there are in which numbers of people are waiting to take driving tests; how long the average waiting period is likely to be; and what action he is proposing to take in the matter?
§ Captain WallaceCandidates for driving tests are advised to send in their applications at least 15 days before the date on which they wish to be tested and the waiting period in general is approximately 15 days. In 17 of the 74 districts the present waiting period is from one to eight days in excess of this. My hon. Friend will appreciate that there is a seasonal rush for driving tests and that the number of applicants in any district varies considerably from week to week. The position is most carefully watched and the necessary adjustments of staff are made to ensure that delay in any district is reduced to a minimum.
Mr. RathboneIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that certain rush seasons coincided with the influenza season, and that the transferring of examiners to districts in which examiners were laid up in large numbers by reason of influenza kept applicants for driving tests waiting for considerably longer periods than has been mentioned by him?
§ Captain WallaceI regret that there was a casualty in the area which my hon. Friend has in mind, and to which another examiner had to be sent. I hope that the delay will shortly be minimised.