Labour provides major update on elderly driver restrictions amid plans to launch mandatory eye tests

A consultation would likely be launched ahead of any law changes
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Older motorists could soon receive an update on plans that could require them to take regular eye tests to stay on the road.
Labour is planning to introduce the first road safety strategy in over a decade and has already hinted at several major changes.
Proposals include tightening drink-drive limits and harsher punishments for motorists who fail to make their passengers wear their seatbelts.
It could also look to introduce mandatory eye tests for drivers over the age of 70 amid growing concerns around road safety.
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The proposed changes come as the Government considers guidance provided by campaigners and safety organisations about growing concerns on the road.
In a written question to the Department for Transport, Liberal Democrat MP Vikki Slade asked whether any changes would be introduced.
Ms Slade, who represents Mid Dorset and North Poole, questioned whether Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander would make an assessment on the potential merits of certain proposals.
The first was looking at requiring all drivers to submit an eye test result when applying for a driving licence renewal.
The Minister for Local Transport responded to questions about eye tests for elderly drivers on behalf of the DfT
|PA/GETTY
The Lib Dem MP also asked if the DfT would broaden the required eye tests to include an assessment of vision in reduced lighting, reaction times and peripheral vision.
In response, Simon Lightwood, Labour MP for Wakefield and Rothwell, said any options to change the law would be subject to public consultation.
The Local Transport Minister added: "All drivers, regardless of age, have a legal responsibility to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if they develop a medical condition that may affect their ability to drive.
"The Government is considering the current process of self-declaration and the challenges posed by an ageing population where certain conditions, including vision conditions, may become more prevalent.
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"In the meantime, the current renewal at age 70 process remains as is, and drivers must legally declare any vision or medical conditions that may affect their ability to drive."
In response to recent high-profile incidents, Dr James Adeley, the senior coroner for Lancashire, slammed the UK's self-certification system, describing it as the "laxest in Europe".
It followed an inquest into the deaths of four people who were killed by motorists with poor eyesight, some of whom were told to stop driving.
Dr Adeley added that the current system of visual legal standards was "ineffective, unsafe and unfit to meet the needs of society".
Labour is expected to launch the new road safety strategy in the coming months, as confirmed by former Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.
Measures to improve eye test rules have been backed by experts, including the Association of Optometrists and the Older Drivers' Forum.
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said: "The NHS recommends adults should have their eyes tested every two years and drivers are legally required to inform the DVLA if they have a condition which affects their eyesight.
"We are committed to improving road safety and continue to explore ways to achieve this."