HC Deb 29 October 1996 vol 284 cc96-7W
Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the implications for people in north Staffordshire of the closure of the Stoke-on-Trent vehicle registration office; and if he will reconsider his decision. [43]

Mr. Bowis

The decision to close Stoke-on-Trent vehicle registration office was taken following a detailed review of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency's need for local offices. It was concluded that future needs could be met by a network of 41 offices giving customers an accessible local service within about 30 miles. This reduction will enable the agency to make significant efficiency savings on running costs.

It also takes account of a reduction in work load which will accrue from a project which enable dealers to register and licence new cars without having to visit a vehicle registration office so frequently.