Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department is taking steps to encourage HGV drivers over the age of 60 to continue working; and whether his Department is taking steps to (a) reduce the cost for the Driver Qualification Card and (b) remove other barriers for people in this age range.

The five-yearly renewal of lorry and bus licences from age 45, and annual renewal from age 65 require an HGV driver to make a declaration regarding their health and to submit a medical report. This process is designed to be balanced and proportionate and reflect the greater road safety risks posed by the driving of larger vehicles. Age on its own is not a reliable indicator of health, however, it is widely accepted that the likelihood of developing conditions which may affect fitness to drive increases with age.

The Department for Transport has consulted on possible reforms to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, which was enabled by the UK leaving the European Union. Officials are reviewing responses to proposals, which include reforms to make renewal of cards and re-entry to the sector more proportionate for experienced drivers.

Welfare is key to driver retention and improving lorry parking facilities continues to be a central component of this work. Lorry drivers will soon benefit from improved roadside facilities and safer rest areas thanks to up to £100 million investment from industry and Government via the ‘HGV parking and welfare grant scheme’ and National highways funding to improve roadside facilities. This funding will support operators to improve security, showers and eating facilities.