HC Deb 25 January 1961 vol 633 cc22-3W
Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Minister of Transport how many driving tests are carried out per week; and how many applications are still outstanding.

Mr. Marples

The number of driving tests carried out per week averages about 34,000. On 14th January, 1961, there were 169,000 applications outstanding.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Minister of Transport what arrangements are made to notify an applicant who is willing to take a driving test at short notice of the availability of an examiner through a cancellation.

Mr. Marples

We try to fill late cancellations by offering the appointments to candidates who have notified their willingness to take a driving test at short notice. This is done either by post or, if necessary, by telephone or telegram.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Minister of Transport when it is proposed to give effect to Section 102 (4) of the Road Traffic Act, 1960, which requires a driver to undergo a driving test after holding a limited number of provisional driving licences.

Mr. Marples

Section 102 (4) of the Act will be brought into force as soon as we are satisfied that the increase which it may well cause in the number of applications for a driving test will not lead to applicants for a test having to wait unreasonably long for an appointment.