HC Deb 03 July 1978 vol 953 cc81-2W
Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Transport, in view of the fact that appointments for driving tests for the Hull area are now being made for late October, he will take steps to im- prove the situation; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Horam

Due mainly to an increase in demand this year, waiting times for driving tests are a good deal longer than we would wish. We are considering the matter within the framework of the Government's policy of constraint on Civil Service manpower.

Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the normal period of waiting for a driving test in the Hull district after an application for a test has been made.

Mr. Horam

The average waiting period for tests in Hull is 16½ weeks.

Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the present establishment of driving examiners for heavy goods vehicle licences in the Hull area; and what steps he is taking to increase the number.

Mr. Horam

I cannot add to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend on 28th April —[Vol. 948, c.707–8]—except to say that the appointment of a second examiner at Beverley is being considered.