Written question asked by Vincent Cable (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 18 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 November 2003. It was answered by David Jamieson (Labour) on Thursday, 20 November 2003 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Dept for Transport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to his Answer of 30th June, Official Report, 408 c2-3W, on driving licences, if he will make a statement on the nature of the detailed research to ensure ease of completion of the driving licence application form; what process was used to undertake the research; what the results were; and what measures he has taken to implement its findings.

Answer: Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to his answer of 30 June 2003, Official Report, column 2W, on driving licences, if he will make a statement on the nature of the detailed research to ensure ease of completion of the driving licence application form; what process was used to undertake the research; what the results were; and what measures he has taken to implement its findings. [140355] Mr. Jamieson: To improve customer service a new driving licence application form, fulfilling the functions of two previously separate forms, was introduced in May 2003. As part of its development research was conducted to assess the effectiveness and ease of use of the form and its accompanying information leaflet. Testing was supported by a specialist research organisation and the Plain English Campaign. DVLA `road tested' the literature using a wide variety of suitable organisations in both the public and private sector, a cross section of members of the general public and, a selection of school children approaching driving age. Over 90 per cent. of participants found the form easy to complete. A number of suggestions from test subjects were also adopted helping to improve layout and content.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 140355; 413 c1451W;413 c1447W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Applications Forms Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency Leaflets Research Driving licences
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk