28/11/2011

Ignore Strike – Driving Test Takers Told

Driving test candidates who have booked their test on November 30 are being urged to turn up for their test despite the threat of industrial action by examiners.

Members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union will be on strike this Wednesday as part of the UK-wide 'day of action' against increased pension contributions for public service workers.

Driving Standards Agency (DSA) chief executive Rosemary Thew said not all examiners are members of the PCS union and the centre cannot be sure that those who are will not turn up for work.

"We therefore want candidates to attend so that practical tests can be delivered if possible," Ms Threw said, and added that theory tests were not affected and will be taking place as planned.

The DSA Chief added: "Candidates who turn up but are unable to take their tests because of industrial action will not have to contact DSA to re-book. They should hear from us with a new date within five to ten working days. We apologise for the inconvenience this will cause and are doing everything we can to minimise disruption for our customers."

According to the DSA, if no examiner is available for a test, a new date will be rebooked automatically by DSA and the candidate will be sent details of the new test. If candidates fail to attend they will not be able to claim out-of-pocket expenses if their tests are cancelled - and they will need to rebook their own tests.

DSA's customer service centre for practical tests might also be affected by the strike action. Customers who wish to book a practical test will still be able to use their internet booking service.

(DW)

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