Government to consider introduction of Graduated Driver Licensing scheme

The Department for Transport (DfT) has today announced that its Road Safety Action Plan will include a commitment to exploring the introduction of a Graduated Driver Licensing scheme.

Road Safety Minister, Michael Ellis, declared:

“We want to explore in greater detail how graduated driver licensing, or aspects of it, can help new drivers to stay safe and reduce the number of people killed or injured on our roads”.

Although there are no guarantees, particularly in light of the governmental changes taking place next week, today’s statement takes us a step closer towards securing real improvements to young driver safety.

Much of today’s media coverage has been focused on night time curfews. GDL is a package of measures of which the potential of a curfew is just one. Keoghs has always promoted debate and consultation on the broader package of reforms with the policy ambition of making young drivers and our roads safer and reducing the UK’s worrying statistics on young drivers killed or seriously injured.

Many young people are currently priced out of driving and any measures which could make driving safer and more affordable to promote work and social mobility for young people deserves support.

What next?

The Government’s Road Safety Action Plan is due to be published tomorrow; we’ll examine it closely for any details on DfT’s approach and expected timeframes.

We have a very timely meeting arranged with DfT officials later this month, and will use the opportunity to find out more about the Government’s thinking around young drivers, as well as to reinforce our messages on potential solutions.

Keoghs have worked hard over the past few years to raise the profile of young driver safety at Westminster, and have built strong relationships with key stakeholders from the road safety lobby, including Brake and RoSPA. We’ll be seeking meetings with them and others to ensure that the case for change is as robust as it can be.

The next few months could be a real game-changer for young driver safety; we’ll continue to monitor and engage on this important issue, and will notify clients of any material developments as soon as they occur.

 For more information, please contact Head of Market Affairs, Kate Carr