HC Deb 26 May 1954 vol 528 cc392-3
38. Mr. Renton

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he has now completed his inquiry into driving tests; and whether he will make a statement on the subject.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

At my request, my hon. Friend the Joint Parliamentary Secretary has investigated recent criticisms of the driving test. He has found that the Department receives only one complaint in writing for every 1,200 tests carried out and that the ratio is steadily decreasing. We are satisfied that the tests achieve their object of ensuring that, to pass them, candidates must be able to drive safely and with consideration for other road users and that they have a sound knowledge of the Highway Code. I have come to the conclusion that none of the recent criticisms warrants any change in the present system and that the driving test is essential to road safety. The driving examiners perform a difficult task with efficiency, courtesy and tact, and I should like to take this opportunity of expressing my complete confidence in them.

Mr. Renton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a constituent of mine, after failing his driving test for the sixth time, withdrew his support from Her Majesty's Government? Is my right hon. Friend aware that the statement which he has just made is a complete vindication of the officials who are doing an important but embarrassing task very zealously?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I am grateful to my hon. and learned Friend for what he has said. If the incident which he has quoted should become universal practice, I should have to look at the system again.