§ Mr. FrenchTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many learner drivers fail their driving test as a result of poor eyesight.
§ Mr. AtkinsIn 1988–89, the latest year for which information is available, 592 out of over 2 million candidates failed their test because they did not meet the statutory eyesight requirements.
§ Mr. FrenchTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) if he has any plans to introduce compulsory eye tests and regular tests for motorists over the age of 50 years;
(2) if he has received any representations from (a) motoring organisations and (b) chief constables regarding the eyesight standards of motorists; and if he will make a statement;
(3) what estimate he has of the number of motoring accidents caused by the defective eyesight of motorists.
§ Mr. AtkinsWe have in the past received representations from the police and motoring organisations regarding the eyesight standards of motorists. Research studies have not identified poor eyesight as a significant cause of accidents. I therefore have no plans to change the current requirements, which fully meet the standards380W proposed by the European Commission in the draft second directive on driver licensing and which are supported by the college of Opthalmologists.