HL Deb 21 January 1991 vol 525 cc1-2WA
Lord Teviot

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many drivers are currently licensed to drive PSVs between 5.5 metres and 8.5 metres in length (Classes 3 and 3A) and what will be the implications for road safety when these drivers are permitted to drive PSVs, including double deck vehicles, up to 12 metres in length, without the need for a further test, following the harmonisation of EC licence categories which comes into effect on 1st April 1991.

The Minister of State, Department of Transport (Lord Brabazon of Tara)

The number of drivers in these classes is not known, although statistics should be available in future when computer-produced licences are issued by DVLA from Swansea. The changes are being introduced in order to bring the driver licensing system into line with other member states in the European Community. They should not have an adverse effect on road safety. Drivers who qualify to drive a larger range of vehicles under the new system will have experience driving buses and should be able to adapt to the new vehicles quickly. Employers can also be expected to play their part by ensuring that their drivers are able to handle the vehicles assigned to them. The new arrangements will also tighten the rules applying to the large number of people who drive large buses (not for hire or reward) on the strength of their ordinary driving licence. This should improve road safety.