§ Mr. LordTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the effect of new regulations for drivers of heavy goods vehicles on the work prospects of drivers who wear spectacles; and if he will make a statement. [12913]
§ Mr. NorrisWe estimate that some 3,000 drivers will be unable to renew their entitlement to drive large goods and passenger-carrying vehicles when the new eyesight regulations are introduced. It is not possible to estimate how many of these will lose their job or how many will find some other work with their present employer. The work prospects of those who wish to take up the driving of these vehicles will not be affected.