HC Deb 01 November 1979 vol 972 cc607-8W
Mr. Ernie Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking or is proposing to take to reduce the average waiting time for a driving test at the Dundee test centre.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

I am recruiting more driving examiners nationally to reduce the present waiting times. An additional examiner is to be posted to Dundee as soon as practicable.

Mr. David Atkinson

asked the Minister of Transport what is the distance used for the eyesight test, recognition of number plates, in the driving test; and what are the reasons for it.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

Driving test candidates, and indeed anyone driving an ordinary vehicle, must be able to read, in good daylight and with glasses or contact lenses if worn, either a number plate with symbols 3½ in. high at a distance of 75 ft. or one with symbols 3⅛ in. high at 67 ft.

Anyone who cannot do this cannot legally drive or hold or obtain a licence. The test is simple to understand and easy to apply by drivers themselves and by driving examiners and the police. Recent research has established that the test requires a relatively high standard of visual acuity which compares well with standards demanded in other countries.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

asked the Minister of Transport what is the average length of time learner drivers who apply for driving tests are having to wait before they are tested in Bury St. Edmunds; why there is a shortage of examiners at this centre; and if he is satisfied that the present system of testing is in all respects satisfactory and cost-effective.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

31 weeks, which I accept is unsatisfactory. The situation at Bury St. Edmunds is a particular example of what has been permitted to happen over the country as a whole; the examiner-force was not allowed to keep pace with the demand for tests; and we are now having to recruit more staff as quickly as we can. That apart, I am satisfied with the working of the driving test organisation. But I have noted the above-average wait at Bury St. Edmunds and we will post additional staff there as soon as practicable.