Watson criticises Tory calls for more expensive trips

4.03.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 19th May 2008

EU Transport Commissioner Jacques Barrot in 2006 showing a standard European driving licence which will replace the dozens of different types used across the EU, and is already in use in the UK.

Local Liberal Democrat MEP for the South West of England and Gibraltar, Graham Watson questions a Conservative Councillor's attack on European drivers in the Westcountry.

Graham commented;

"I know numerous constituents from across the south-west will soon be taking their summer holidays throughout Europe. Many will take their own cars, and others will take up the opportunity to hire a car, and this will be hassle free due to mutual recognition of licences and examinations across the EU.

I am not sure if Councillor King has ever done so? But his Conservative plans would certainly make life harder and more expensive for all of us trying to travel within Europe!"

Editors note:-

Union wide rules now exist on driving licences across the EU, and these rules are governed by two over arching principles, to facilitate the free movement of the citizens of the Community and contribute to the improvement of road traffic safety.

With regard to road safety Directive 91/439/EEC (dating from 1991) harmonised the categories of driving licences, conditions for the issue of a driving licence; minimum ages for the carious categories; driving test; minimum standards of physical and mental fitness.

The EU has also adapted the Community model driving licence in order to facilitate comprehension and the mutual recognition of licences by the authorities of the Member States.

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