Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the number of drivers using learner driver plates to work.

No assessment has been made of the number of learner drivers driving for work, although learner drivers must be accompanied by an eligible supervising driver on public roads.

The safety of anyone driving on our roads is a priority, and that includes those who drive for work. We will pilot a National Work-Related Road Safety Charter for businesses that require people to drive or ride for them. The aim is to help employers to reduce work-related road risk and improve safety for all road users by promoting good practice and improved legal compliance.

We have also consulted on a Minimum Learning Period before learner drivers can take their practical driving test. This would allow learners more time to gain essential experience e.g. in different weather conditions, before driving independently.