§ Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the current waiting period for HGV tests in the north-west; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyBetween four and six and a half weeks. The wait at some testing stations is longer than we would like because of the rise in demand for tests and the diversion of the work load resulting from the unforeseen need to close the Wallasey testing station. Urgent action is being taken to reduce delays. A replacement for Wallasey opens this summer, and the vehicle inspectorate executive agency is taking on extra staff.