§ Mr. DunnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about the implementation of the second EC directive on driving licences. [26859]
§ Sir George YoungThe changes being introduced as a result of the second directive are very complex. Some aspects have required clarification or negotiation with the commission, and some information from the commission is still awaited. We understand that a number of other member states do not expect to be in a position to implement the directive fully for some time.
We now intend to implement the directive in two stages. The theory test for cars and motorcycles will be introduced as planned on 1 July 1996. However, other changes to the legislation will be introduced on 1 January 1997. They include the introduction of theory tests for other vehicles; the introduction of new categories of driving licence—in particular for new applicants for entitlement to drive minibus and light good vehicles—and changes to eyesight requirements for driving of lorries and buses.