Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact a minimum learning period for driving could have on (a) cost and (b) the access to (i) employment and (ii) education of young people in rural areas.

A public consultation on introducing a Minimum Learning Period for learner drivers in England, Scotland and Wales was launched on 7 January and closed on 11 May. We are analysing the responses received.

A Minimum Learning Period 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 believe this strikes an appropriate balance between addressing specific risks pertaining to younger drivers, whilst allowing them to exercise new freedoms that passing your driving test can bring.

As stated in the consultation document, we recognise that having a driving licence enables people to access employment, education and leisure.

The logistical arrangements for introducing a minimum learning period for learner drivers formed part of the consultation. No decisions will be made until the responses to the consultation have been carefully considered.