§ Mr. David Marshallasked the Secretary of State for Transport what driving test standards are necessary in order to obtain a heavy goods vehicle and a public service vehicle driving licence in the United Kingdom; and what equivalent information he has about each of the member states of the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyTo obtain an HGV or PSV licence in the United Kingdom, candidates have to pass a driving test during which they must (i) demostrate a full understanding of the principles involved in driving heavy load or passenger-carrying vehicles and of the application of those principles; (ii) demonstrate their ability to handle such vehicles competently and with utmost safety in a wide variety of situations; and (iii) show courtesy and consideration for other road users.
HGV and PSV tests incorporate manoeuvres which are conducted at the test centre; a practical drive of about 20 903W miles; and oral questions on the Highway Code and technical matters. The distance travelled in other EEC countries ranges from five to 20 miles. The length of a driving test is the best readily available indicator for comparing standards.
§ Mr. David Marshallasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list in the Official Report the minimum age for obtaining a heavy goods vehicle and a public service vehicle driving licence in the United Kingdom; and what equivalent information he has about each of the member states of the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyTwenty-one but below this under particular circumstances. The minimum age limits for driving vehicles carrying goods and passengers within the European Community are laid down in EC regulation 3820/85. A copy of this is available in the House Library.