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<p>The Government has no current plans to allow public service vehicle (category D)
licence holders to drive any heavy goods vehicles (category C) during the COVID-19
pandemic.</p><p> </p><p>Legislation requires the driver to have passed a test in the
category of the vehicle being driven.</p><p> </p><p>Although buses and coaches share
many similar driving characteristics with lorries, there are significant differences
in the handling, braking with a load, and automatic and semi-automatic transmission
systems. Without specific training, bus drivers may not be familiar with these differences,
which may have significant road safety implications.</p><p> </p><p>The safety of vulnerable
road users, including pedestrians or cyclists is a priority for this Government. Only
those drivers who have undertaken appropriate training in the vehicle and demonstrated
competence by passing a test can drive category C vehicles.</p><p> </p><p>The Government
will keep under review the availability of drivers to ensure critical supply chains
are able to continue servicing NHS and supermarket food supplies during the pandemic.</p><p>
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