Learner drivers are facing ‘unacceptable’ waits of up to five months to take car and vocational driving tests in Na h-Eileanan an Iar and Isles MP Angus MacNeil is calling on the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to urgently review arrangements.

Mr MacNeil has been approached by constituents trying to book vocational tests who report delays of around five months from first attempt to make a booking until the actual test.

He said: “Delays to vocational testing such as those for HGV, bus, trailer tests etc has an effect on people’s livelihoods and the DVSA needs to address this situation as a matter of urgency.

“The test delays are also affecting those wishing to secure a car driver’s licence which is especially disappointing for young people hoping to pass their test before heading for university.

“I have been in contact with the DVSA on this matter already and they have said that efforts are being made to offer incentives to examiners willing to travel to remote locations, however there is doubt locally about any impact this will have.

“In the past, those wishing to take vocational tests and learner drivers could expect a test within a month and the deterioration of this service is not acceptable.

“I understand that this issue arose following the merging of the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) to form the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

“This current situation also shows the lack of priority which this UK Government agency is giving to remote rural locations such as Na h-Eileanan an Iar.”

“I await a response from the Minister for Transport who has responsibility for the DVSA.”