The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner has issued a stark warning, urging the government to impose significant new restrictions on newly qualified drivers in a bid to prevent tragic deaths on the region's roads.
What are Progressive Driving Licences?
Simon Foster is championing a national campaign for the introduction of Progressive Driving Licences. This system would enforce temporary but stringent conditions on drivers in the critical months before and after they pass their practical test.
The proposed safeguards, which Mr Foster argues are "proven and urgently needed," include a range of measures designed to mitigate the high risks faced by inexperienced motorists.
- Night-time curfews: Restrictions on driving during high-risk late-night hours.
- Stricter alcohol limits: A lower drink-drive threshold for new drivers.
- Passenger limits: Fewer peer-aged passengers allowed in the vehicle.
- Mandatory learning periods: A minimum timeframe for learning before taking the test.
- In-car technology: Mandatory use of telematics to monitor and incentivise safe, legal driving.
A "Gross Dereliction of Duty" to Delay
PCC Simon Foster, who was first elected in May 2021, stated that road safety has been a top priority for him since taking office. He emphasised the human cost of inaction.
"Every day we delay, young lives are being put at risk," Foster said. "Continued inaction to prevent these collisions and casualties is unacceptable. The Government must seize this opportunity."
He is calling on West Midlands MPs to pressure the Department for Transport to include the Progressive Driving Licence framework in its upcoming Road Safety Strategy. Foster warned that failing to act would be "a gross dereliction of the first duty of government – to keep its people safe."
Addressing Practical Concerns
The Police and Crime Commissioner acknowledged potential concerns that new rules could hinder young people's access to education, employment, or caring responsibilities.
However, he stressed that these issues could be "fully mitigated through exemptions" built into the policy. Foster aims to build a coalition with charities, emergency services, academics, and bereaved families to champion the evidence-based case for change.
He has also called on local MPs to raise the issue in Parliament to secure the necessary policy commitment and funding to roll out Progressive Driving Licences across the nation.
