School Minibus Safety - Remove Section 19 Exemptions for Schools

Background

We call on the Government to remove Section 19 exemptions for schools in the Transport Act 1985, so children and young people are only driven by qualified, professional drivers, and that minibuses are maintained to commercial standards, by requiring a full Public Service Vehicle Operator’s Licence.

Additional details

In November 1993, a minibus carrying young people home to a Worcestershire school from a school trip to London crashed into a lorry, killing 13 people. The trip took place after the school day and the crash occurred just after midnight. We lost our daughter Claire in that crash. A teacher, or support staff member can still, thirty years later, work all day, and then drive a school minibus for long distances without further training or qualifications. All children, young people and staff must Come Home Safe.

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