D1 Licence Training 2024-05-16
2024-05-16
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from a need within the transport sector to provide grants or funding to support drivers obtaining D1 licences, which are necessary for operating passenger-carrying vehicles.
Whether his Department provides grants for the provision of training for D1 licences.
Although we do not provide direct funding for drivers to obtain D1 licences, the Department makes available more than £3 million a year through the bus service operators grant to community transport operators in England, which are predominantly charities operating vehicles that require D1 licences. They receive £1.60 for every £1 claimed, reflecting the increased costs faced by the sector, and supporting them to continue delivering inclusive and accessible transport across the country.
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Assessment & feedback
Direct funding for training individuals to obtain D1 licences
Although We Do Not Provide Direct Funding
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
There is a shortage of minibus drivers in Scotland and the rest of the UK, exacerbated by Brexit and the pandemic. Passenger-carrying vehicle drivers can work in various fields such as public transport, tour and travel companies, school transportation, and private charter services.
I thank the Minister for that answer. In Scotland, as across the rest of the UK, there has been a shortage of minibus drivers, with Brexit and the legacy of covid fuelling a crippling shortage of bus drivers. Passenger-carrying vehicle drivers can pursue careers in various fields, including public transport, tour and travel companies, school transportation and private charter services. What more can the Government do to incentivise such training?
The hon. Gentleman might not be aware of the recent consultation to reduce the age requirement for bus and HGV drivers from 21 to 18, and I encourage him to speak to the Department for Work and Pensions. We are working closely with the relevant Ministers at DWP to have sector-based work academies and skills boot camps, to encourage greater participation by drivers.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures or funding for driver training programs
The Hon. Gentleman Might Not Be Aware
Response accuracy