§ Mr. HarveyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what are the current licensing requirements for minibus drivers; and what plans he has to review them, with particular regard to those drivers transporting children.
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§ Mr. KeyPassenger-carrying vehicle driving entitlement is required to drive any minibus over eight passenger seats when driven for hire or reward. A public consultation on changes arising from the second EC directive on driver licensing, which requires stringent medical and driving test standards for drivers of these vehicles, will include proposals for volunteer drivers of minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats.
Under current legislation drivers who hold ordinary car licences have entitlement to drive vehicles of up to eight passenger seats. If they are 21 years of age or over they are also allowed to drive a minibus with up to 17 seats, including the driver's, provided it is not for hire or reward.