HC Deb 24 October 1978 vol 955 cc791-2W
Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if, in view of the fact that persons below the age of 18 years can drive two-wheeled vehicles which are capable of speeds well in excess of maximum limits and without having had previous experience, training or supervision, may take to the road without any test of skill or judgment, he will bring forward proposals further to regulate this matter.

Mr. Horam

My right hon. Friend is encouraging the development of training facilities and trying to persuade more riders to use them. He has no new regulatory proposals at present, but he will continue to keep the situation under close review.

rather longer to process than normal cases, and the letter confirms that a particular application has been received so that, provided the disqualification has ended as the applicant has declared, entitlement to drive has been restored. The procedure has been followed since 1974, but we have noted the criticism to which my hon. Friend refers and we are considering whether any change is necessary.