Member

Proposed new Section 93I of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 will create a power for the Secretary of State to make regulations to prevent the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency granting a replacement driving licence to registered sex offenders who are subject to such restrictions by the police. The DVLA issues licences in England, Wales and Scotland. In Northern Ireland, that function is exercised by the Driver & Vehicle Agency, hence my Amendment 325 making equivalent provision in new Section 93I for Northern Ireland. This will enable the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland to make regulations preventing registered sex offenders being issued with a replacement licence in a new name without necessary authorisation. I am grateful for the support for that from both the Liberal Democrat and Opposition Benches. This will be possible whether the registered sex offender now holds or previously held a licence in Northern Ireland or Britain.