HC Deb 08 December 1980 vol 995 cc278-9W
Mr. McQuarrie

asked the Minister of Transport what was the result of the discussuons at the European Economic Community Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels on 4 December of the proposals for a Community driving licence valid in all member States; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

A first directive on the introduction of a European Community driving licence was formally adopted at the Council. This was in the terms of the draft document debated and agreed by the House of Commons on 4 November. The new directive will enable new residents moving from one Community State to another after 1 June 1983 to exchange their national driving licences without taking a further test. It also provides for all ordinary driving licences within the European Community to be issued in a common format from 1 January 1986.