§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what responses he has had to the consultation document on proposals for a new driver licensing system in the 1990s.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe replies indicate general support for the concept of harmonisation with other EC member states.
The idea of a single licence showing all driving entitlement was favourably received. Support for the traffic commissioners retaining responsibility for the conduct of vocational drivers was virtually unanimous. Some reservations were expressed about the proposal to bring the level of medical checks for HGV drivers into line with those that currently apply to drivers of public service vehicles.
The categories of driving entitlement in the EC model system caused serious concern among voluntary and community transport organisations as well as motor manufacturers.
Over 80 per cent. of the responses suggested that tighter controls on drivers of minibuses and light goods vehicles would seriously impair the operation of these services as well as the demand for the vehicles in question.
The entitlement of existing ordinary licence holders to drive minbuses and light goods vehicles will be preserved in the new licensing system.
The Department will press strongly in the negotiations on the forthcoming second Community driving licence directive to preserve the existing arrangements for new drivers. This should not affect the other changes which are considered worth while.
We shall be seeking the necessary legislation at the first available opportunity.