HC Deb 08 December 1975 vol 902 cc21-2W
Mr. McCrindle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will require ability to read to be essential before taking a driving test.

Dr. Gilbert

No. I have no evidence to suggest that inability to read has any significant bearing on driving ability.

Mr. McCrindle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will require a more detailed test of vision when he is reviewing the driving test.

Dr. Gilbert

I have at present no evidence that this would significantly reduce the accident risk. The Road Research Laboratory is undertaking research to determine what effective tests are practicable, using, for example, a test of dynamic acuity.