§ Mr. Ovendenasked the Secretary of State for Transport what current EEC regulations or directives exist or are under discussion concerning the licensing of drivers who carry non-fare paying passengers in vehicles with more than 16 seats; and what amendments he expects to propose to United Kingdom legislation.
§ Mr. William RodgersThere are no regulations or directives which refer specifically to vehicles with more than 16 seats carrying non-fare paying passengers or which might require legislation about the licensing of their drivers. Such vehicles are among those for which EEC Regulation 543/69 requires the driver to be at least 21 and also to be suitably experienced or to hold a certificate of professional competence confirming that he has completed a course of training. From 16th December 1978 the minimum level of training for such a certificate must be that laid down in EEC directive 914/76. I am considering what action is necessary in relation to this directive.