HC Deb 11 November 1980 vol 992 cc169-70W
Mr. Pawsey

asked the Minister of Transport if he will list those countries of which the driving licence is acceptable in Great Britain, together with the period for which such a licence is valid.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

All ordinary driving licences are recognised in Great Britain for one year irrespective of the country of issue. This applies to visitors and new residents alike. However, in the case of heavy goods or public service vehicles, visitors licensed abroad may only drive temporarily imported vehicles. New residents must obtain the appropriate British licence before they may drive a heavy goods or public service vehicle.

Mr. Pawsey

asked the Minister of Transport if he will introduce a system by which his Department recognises certain foreign driving licences, for which it is satisfied an adequate test has been taken, as giving a right to drive for an indefinite period in Great Britain to the holder.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

From 1983 the holders of ordinary full driving licences issued in any European Community country will be able to exchange them for British licences if they become resident in this country. Heavy goods vehicle and public service vehicle licences will be exchanged only if adequate driving experience can be proved. We are considering whether similar facilities could be extended to car and motor cycle driving licences issued in third countries providing an adequate test has been passed.

Mr. Pawsey

asked the Minister for Transport what information he has as to the number of accidents which have occurred involving motorists who were driving with a foreign driving licence.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

This information is not available.