Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Monday, 11 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 October 2004. It was answered by David Jamieson (Labour) on Monday, 18 October 2004 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Dept for Transport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what plans he has to make the Driving Standards Authority more accountable; and what continuing professional development is available to driving test examiners.

Answer: Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to make the Driving Standards Authority more accountable; and what continuing professional development is available to driving test examiners. [191036] Mr. Jamieson: The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is responsible to Parliament via the Secretary of State for Transport. Ministers set the agency demanding targets on performance, efficiency and service delivery and require regular updates on progress. Key priorities are contained in DSA's Business Plan and Annual Report and Accounts. The latter also reports performance against targets. DSA's examiners undergo a rigorous supervision regime, including regular assessment of their performance by senior officers, and in-service training and development. The agency also runs an Open Learning Fund. This is available to all staff and is aimed at encouraging lifelong learning.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 425 c436W; 191036
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Accountability Driving tests Driving Standards Agency Staff Training
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk