§ 3.29 p.m.
§ VISCOUNT MASSEREENE AND FERRARDMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Second Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether anything can be done to give part of the driving test in real or simulated darkness.]
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT (LORD CHESHAM)My Lords I am sure that my noble friend appreciates that to conduct driving tests in "real" darkness is just not a practicable proposition. A simulated test would be equally difficult, as well as unlikely to be effective.
§ VISCOUNT MASSEREENE AND FERRARDMy Lords, I thank my noble friend for his Answer. I was of the opinion that we could have driving tests in simulated darkness but I am quite prepared to accept my noble friend's assurance that it is quite impracticable.
§ LORD CHESHAMMy Lords I am obliged to my noble friend. I am afraid it would be ineffective. Of course, it would be nice if it could be done, but I feel it is a long way off yet.
§ LORD WAKEFIELD OF KENDALMy Lords, in the interests of road safety, may I ask my noble friend what steps the Government are taking for learner drivers to obtain practice and instruction on equipment able to simulate difficult or dangerous road conditions, in the same way that air crews can obtain practice and be tested on flight simulators on the ground instead of in the air? Is it not possible for something of that kind to be done?
§ LORD CHESHAMMy Lords, I think I must say to my noble friend that he certainly might ask that if he were to put a Question on the Paper, but, frankly, I do not think I am justified in answering that as arising out of the Question that we have before us.