THE MP for Northwich has waded into the debate about a lack of lorry drivers, saying a lack of driving test slots is the cause.

Mike Amesbury says limited driving test slots are making it difficult for new truckers to enter an industry that is ‘crying out for them’.

It’s estimated the UK is 100,000 drivers short, with many haulage firms located in the Runcorn part of Mr Amesbury’s Weaver Vale constituency.

The Labour MP says it’s ‘frustrating’ because he has been contacted by more than 20 constituents retraining as lorry drivers but met with long waiting lists to get a test date.

He said: "I recognise the pandemic may have slowed down driver testing.

"But I understand the main issue now is a national shortage of driving test examiners.

"This is something the Government is belatedly starting to address although I fear it may be too little, too late, to avoid a crisis.

"This is at a time when many people were encouraged to retrain because of the economic impact of Covid. But some trainee lorry drivers are having to wait 12-14 weeks for a driving test slot.

"I understand the whole process, from start to finish, now takes six months or more because of all the delays in the system when traditionally it could be done in two months."

There was concern when a lorry driver training and testing centre closed at Widnes Business Park in Mr Amesbury’s neighbouring constituency. But the firm has actually relocated nearby and is seeking accreditation from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to begin driver testing again in the near future.

Looking at the bigger picture, Mr Amesbury fears Transport Secretary Grant Shapps is seeking a ‘quick fix’ to the national driver shortage in an industry problem exacerbated by Brexit and Covid - as many foreign lorry drivers have returned home to their families.

Mr Shapps wants to temporarily allow existing truck drivers to work longer hours and is even considering ‘diluting driver standards’, says Mr Amesbury.

The MP said: "I’m sorry but this is madness. These proposals are just not safe for truck drivers, other road users or pedestrians.

"Unite the Union proposes making the sector more attractive to new entrants through the creation of a national council to promote decent pay rates and working conditions.

"It’s shocking to hear about a lack of access to basic facilities like toilets for drivers who are working long hours – sometimes away from home - but who almost literally keep the wheels of commerce turning."