§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Transport what additional delay takes place for applicants for driving tests who indicate that they wish the examinations to take place in languages other than English; how many examiners are now able to hold examinations in languages other than English; which languages they are and how many examiners in Wales are now able to provide examinations in Welsh.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyWith the single exception of tests in Wales which applicants may choose to have conducted in Welsh, driving tests in Great Britain are conducted in English only. Applicants for whom this may pose difficulties can be accompanied on test by an interpreter. The Department currently employs six examiners who can conduct tests in Welsh. No separate records are kept of applications for tests in Welsh. Candidates for such tests should not normally have to wait longer than other applicants.