Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of Section 19 permit exemptions for teachers driving pupils on school trips on safety; and whether she plans to review the training, qualification and safety requirements applicable to teachers operating vehicles under such permits.

Operating vehicles under Section 19 permits comes with important obligations. To support permit holders with their responsibilities, we publish guidance to promote and support the correct and safe use of vehicles operated under permits. The guidance explains that they must ensure that drivers are correctly trained, have the correct driving licence, and take adequate breaks.

There is also specific guidance for schools and local authorities on driving minibuses, which is published jointly with the Department of Education.

We are aware of calls for changes to minibus driver licensing arrangements and remain engaged on the issues with the Department for Education.