Dr Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will extend the expiry dates for (a) passenger carrying vehicle and (b) other higher categories of driving licences for volunteer specialist drivers (i) whose age requires a medical certificate to accompany their licence renewal application and (ii) who cannot access a GP appointment to obtain a medical certificate to accompany that licence renewal application during the covid-19 outbreak.  [34894]

[Due for Answer on 21 April.]

ANSWER

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Rachel Maclean): To keep bus and lorry drivers on the road, the Government has made temporary provisions for bus and lorry drivers aged 45 and over. A D4 medical report will not be required when applying to renew a bus or lorry driving licence until further notice. Provided they have no notifiable medical conditions, drivers will be issued a licence that is valid for one year instead of the usual five. This will only apply if the licence is due to expire or has expired since 1 January 2020.

As is always the case, drivers must ensure they are medically fit to drive and they are legally obliged to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency of any onset or worsening medical conditions.

NOTE: A further Question pursuing this matter has been tabled.