§ 12. Mr. Nicholas Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Transport what response he has so far had to consultations on the introduction of a two-part motor cycle test.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe response has been wide and helpful. We are encouraged by the general support expressed for the proposed two-part test. There are some reservations about certain of the detailed proposals we made for implementing the new test and we shall consider these carefully before consulting on draft regulations.
§ Mr. BakerIs my hon. and learned Friend aware that there is concern that there should be sufficient examiners for the test? Will he ensure that the waiting period for the test is reduced to the absolute minimum? Will he also ensure that there are adequate testing facilities throughout the country?
§ Mr. ClarkeThe consultations in which we are now engaged are aimed mainly at discovering whether there will be enough facilities and enough examiners to enable the new system to begin from 1 January 1982. We are also considering the waiting period for driving tests. I am glad to say that the result of our recruiting campaign is that the waiting period is reducing satisfactorily. The average waiting period outside London is now only 13 weeks and it is still coming down. When the two-year limit for motor cycle provisional licences is introduced, which will not be until October 1982 and will not take effect until October 1984, the problem of waiting times should not be anything like so serious.