Keir Starmer urged to implement new rule for older drivers immediately

Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure to urgently introduce a new regulation for senior drivers, with specialists advocating for more rigorous eyesight tests for those aged over 70. Dr Peter Hampson, an Optometrist and Clinical and Policy Director at the Association of Optometrists (AOP), has reiterated the group's call for tougher vision checks on Britain's roads.

Dr Hampson said: "The UK system around drivers vision is out of step with many other countries who instead use a full sight test to ensure vision meets the standard. In fact, within Europe, we are one of only five countries that uses a number plate test and only one of three countries to rely on self-reporting."

Dr Hampson ardently supported the AOP's stance, saying: "We have long called for mandatory vision checks at first licence application and at every renewal – every 10 years for most drivers, every three years for those over 70."

He went on to underscore the widespread availability of optometry services: "With over 7,000 optometry practices nationwide, optometrists are well placed to support the delivery of these checks swiftly and effectively."

The Older Drivers Forum also contributed to the conversation, recommending: "The Forum recommend that all drivers have an optician's eyesight test at least every 2 years. Nearly 90% of driving is visual and we need good vision to see hazards and react to them."

Providing further reassurance regarding optometry appointments, Dr Hampson said: "Unlike other parts of primary care, such as dentistry or for GPs, optometry does not have long waits for appointments or the capacity challenges that we see elsewhere in the NHS.

"Optometrists already see many patients that fall within this age group. This is because those over the age of 60 are entitled to an NHS sight test that comes at no cost to the patient."

Senior coroner for Lancashire, Dr James Adeley, issued a report aimed at preventing future deaths, following investigations that found four fatalities were caused by drivers with deficient vision, reports Chronicle Live.

Dr Adeley penned a letter to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, asserting that the UK possesses the most lenient licensing system in Europe.