Newly Qualified Drivers

HC Deb 23 March 1994 vol 240 c250W

Mr. Robert Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to introduce a probationary period for newly qualified drivers.

Mr. Key

My right hon. Friend announced on 9 February at columns270–71 the steps we are proposing to take following the consultation on "New Driver Safety". We are considering the practicalities of a scheme requiring drivers convicted of certain traffic offences within a pecified period of qualifying to pass a further driving test; this might involve issuing licences on a probationary basis.

We also considered the case for introducing probationary plates, but are not yet convinced of its merits; we are prepared to consider this further when full results are available of a study into "restricted" plates in Northern Ireland.