§ 66. Mr. C. Osborneasked the Minister of Transport if, in order to reduce the number of road accidents, he will introduce legislation compelling all drivers over 70 years of age of road vehicles to undergo an annual eyesight test, and to make it conditional that no new driving 44W licence will be issued unless a minimum eyesight standard is reached; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MarplesAt the beginning of every driving test a candidate is asked to read a number plate at a distance of 25 yards; if he cannot do so the test is cancelled. Drivers seeking renewal of their driving licences must declare whether they can read a motor car number plate 25 yards away. Licensing authorities refuse a licence application or revoke an existing licence if they become aware that a driver's eyesight does not reach that standard. I do not think that further legislation is necessary.