Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Driving Tests: High Wycombe

04 February 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Steven Baker Con Wycombe

Transport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Steven Baker raised concerns about driving tests: high wycombe in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Steven Baker expressed concern over the planned closure of the driving test centre in High Wycombe by the DVSA.
  • Statistics showed that High Wycombe had more driving tests conducted than both Aylesbury and Uxbridge combined from 2018 to 2019.
  • The Minister confirmed that DVSA is progressing with plans to maintain driving tests in High Wycombe by discussing with a new landlord for premises on Cressex business park.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Steven Baker Con Wycombe

Steven Baker expressed concern over the planned closure of the driving test centre in High Wycombe by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). He highlighted that despite DVSA claims of low demand, there were around 100 driving instructors with thousands of learner drivers. Statistics showed that from 2018 to 2019, High Wycombe had more tests conducted than both Aylesbury and Uxbridge combined. Baker pointed out the disparity in examiner numbers between Slough and High Wycombe, despite Slough having a smaller population. He raised concerns about the environmental impact of learners travelling long distances to other test centres, as well as economic impacts on instructors and students from low-income backgrounds. He advocated for either extending the lease at Wellington Road, finding a new centre in town, or moving towards mobile testing.

Other contributors (1)
  • Rachel Maclean Lab Wythenshawe and Sale East

    Maclean thanked Baker for his work on this issue and acknowledged the impact of long-distance travel to alternative test centres. She stated that due to Baker's efforts, the DVSA is at an advanced stage of discussions with a new landlord for premises on Cressex business park to maintain driving tests in High Wycombe.

Government Response

Nigel Evans

The Minister confirmed that as a result of Steven Baker's efforts, the DVSA is progressing with plans to maintain driving tests in High Wycombe. The agency is at an advanced stage of discussions with a new landlord for premises on Cressex business park. While minimal disruption during transition is expected, it depends on factors such as planning, over which the DVSA has no control. The Minister thanked Baker and assured that they will work closely to keep him informed about progress in securing these premises.

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