§ Mr. David MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what has been the effect of the current programme of check-testing of driving instructors on the register of approved driving instructors.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe object of the approval system is to ensure that driving instructors have the right skills to help their pupils learn to drive safely and with consideration. The rolling programme of check tests at the higher standard introduced in 1985 has revealed a significant number who fall below this standard. Instructors who cannot raise their performance are removed from the register. The programme of check tests over the next two years aims to cover all existing instructors.