HC Deb 09 July 1973 vol 859 cc261-2W
Mr. Redmond

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he now has any proposals for reducing the minimum age for drivers of heavy goods vehicles.

Mr. Peyton

Not at present.

Mr. Redmond

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the present average delay in testing candidates for heavy goods vehicle licences; and what steps he is proposing to take to reduce this period.

Mr. Peyton

Four and a half weeks, which I consider reasonable.

Mr. Redmond

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many persons are qualified to conduct tests for heavy goods vehicle licences in each of the regions; and what steps he is taking to appoint more.

Mr. Peyton

Following is the information:—

TRAFFIC AREA
Northern 12
Yorkshire 16
North Western 24
Scottish 20
West Midland 16
East Midland 23
South Wales 7
South Eastern 17
Eastern 10
Western 16
Metropolitan 27

The number of examiners is adequate but steps are being taken to redeploy staff to areas where the need is greatest.