§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what recent representations he has received on the theory element of the driving test; how many such representations were from national organisations; and what plans he has to ensure that all eligible members of the public have equal access to a theory test. [107456]
§ Mr. HillSince October 1999, one Parliamentary Question has been asked about the driving theory test—I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 10 November 1999,Official Report, column 601W—and we have answered five letters. One letter was from a driving instructor association, and one from a road safety organisation. As part of our social inclusion agenda, we make every effort to ensure that all candidates have their needs accommodated. Test centres have been furbished to meet the needs of the physically disabled. Candidates normally select their answers by touching the screen, but help is available where required. Audio support using headphones is provided in English and Welsh, and in 14 other languages. The test is available with British Sign Language. Candidates with special needs are allowed up to double the normal time to complete the test.
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what allowances the Driving Standards Agency makes for people with dyslexia to take the theory test during a driving test. [107455]
§ Mr. HillSince 4 January, the driving theory test has been delivered using a touch screen computer system. This has significant benefits for dyslexic candidates, who can use earphones to listen to an English language voice-over reading the questions and answer options. Dyslexic candidates are allowed up to double the normal time to complete the test.