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Labour Plans Mandatory Eye Tests for Drivers Over 70

Public polling shows support for annual checks after 70, raising questions over who should assess fitness to drive.

Overview

  • The Labour government is reported to be preparing mandatory eyesight tests for motorists aged over 70, with no legislation announced.
  • A survey cited in the coverage found that 25% of respondents knew an older driver they believed should stop driving.
  • Twenty-seven percent of those surveyed supported yearly driving and medical assessments once drivers reach 70.
  • Respondents split on responsibility for intervention, with 30% naming GPs, 24% preferring self-assessment, and 23% pointing to family members.
  • Public feedback included calls to extend reforms to all licence renewals with online Highway Code checks, noting low awareness of 2022 rule changes.