IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “The publication of a new Green Paper for young drivers is a once in a generation opportunity to help new drivers survive the crucial first six months of driving.  The IAM want to see a system that embeds continuous learning for all new drivers so that once basic skills are learned under supervision they can gain the solo driving experience they need as safely as possible." 

“It makes no sense that the current system abandons new drivers after the test to learn by their often fatal mistakes, but any new approach must be based on saving lives and not reducing insurance premiums warns the IAM. The IAM support post test help for new drivers but we are worried that curfews and restrictions will merely restrict their ability to gain the real world knowledge that will save their lives.  For example, young drivers are most likely to die on rural  roads but these are often missing from test routes.  We have no objection to learners on motorways as they are our safest roads and a minimum learning period may also be useful providing the time can be put to good use.  We look forward with great interest to seeing exactly what the government has planned.”