Asked by: Baroness Seccombe (Conservative - Life peer)
Question to the Department for Transport:
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the Northern Ireland Executive’s plans for graduated driving licence reforms; and what consideration they have given to introducing similar reforms in Great Britain.
Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)
Whilst we are not considering further restrictions on newly qualified drivers, such as carrying passengers or driving at night, we are consulting on a Minimum Learning Period before learner drivers can take their practical driving test in England, Scotland and Wales. This would allow learners more time to gain essential experience, for example in different weather conditions, before driving independently and reduce the risk to themselves and other drivers.
We are also consulting on a lower drink drive limit for newly qualified drivers with the intention of reducing collisions amongst this group.
My officials meet regularly with their counterparts in the Devolved Authorities, including those in Northern Ireland.