§ David WrightTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will introduce a probationary period for newly qualified drivers in the United Kingdom. [17833]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995 and the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Northern Ireland Order 1998 introduced probationary periods for newly qualified drivers. Under these provisions, the licence of any driver who accumulates six or more penalty points in the first two years after passing their first driving test will be revoked automatically. To regain a full licence, a provisional licence must be obtained and the theory and practical tests taken and passed again. In accordance with the Government's Road Safety Strategy, we intend to consult shortly on a wide range of issues regarding newly qualified drivers.